Cleveland Cavaliers Defeat New Orleans Pelicans in Close Game

Cavaliers hold off late Pelicans rally to win 125-115

Mar. 21, 2026 at 2:52pm

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The Cleveland Cavaliers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 125-115 in a close game that saw the Cavaliers nearly blow a large second-half lead. James Harden led the Cavaliers with 36 points, while Evan Mobley had a strong performance with over 30 points. The Pelicans made a late push but ultimately fell short against the Cavaliers.

Why it matters

This win keeps the Cavaliers in the hunt for a high playoff seed in the Eastern Conference, while the Pelicans missed an opportunity to gain ground in the Western Conference standings. The game highlighted the Cavaliers' ability to hold on to leads late in games, as well as the continued development of young stars like Mobley.

The details

The Cavaliers jumped out to a big lead, going up by as much as 20 points in the second half. However, the Pelicans made a furious 33-8 run in the fourth quarter to make it a close game. In the final minutes, Harden and Mobley stepped up to ensure the Cavaliers held on for the victory. Mobley has been a key contributor in the absence of injured center Jarrett Allen, providing strong production in the pick-and-roll with Harden.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, March 21, 2026 at 7:00 p.m. EST.
  • The Cavaliers led by as much as 20 points in the second half before the Pelicans made their late comeback.

The players

James Harden

A veteran guard for the Cleveland Cavaliers who scored 36 points in the win.

Evan Mobley

A young forward for the Cleveland Cavaliers who had over 30 points and stepped up in the absence of injured center Jarrett Allen.

Zion Williamson

The star forward for the New Orleans Pelicans who was healthy and playing well, posing a challenge for the Cavaliers.

Herb Jones

The 6'7" center for the New Orleans Pelicans who started and played a key role in the team's small-ball lineup.

James Borrego

The interim head coach of the New Orleans Pelicans who has helped turn the team around since taking over.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee

What’s next

The Cavaliers will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a high playoff seed, while the Pelicans will try to rebound from the close loss.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Cavaliers' ability to hold on to leads late in games, as well as the continued development of young stars like Mobley. It also highlighted the Pelicans' resilience in making a late comeback, despite ultimately falling short.