Kings Reject Pelicans in Final Seconds

Dylan Cardwell's late defensive stops seal Sacramento's win over New Orleans

Apr. 4, 2026 at 10:35am

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The Sacramento Kings held off the visiting New Orleans Pelicans 117-113 on Friday, with Dylan Cardwell making a pair of crucial blocks in the final seconds to preserve the victory. Cardwell's defensive heroics complemented strong offensive performances from Maxime Raynaud and Nique Clifford, as the Kings snapped the Pelicans' seven-game losing streak.

Why it matters

This game showcased the Kings' resilience and ability to make winning plays down the stretch, even against a struggling Pelicans team. Cardwell's defensive impact off the bench was a key factor, highlighting the team's depth and willingness to make hustle plays when it mattered most.

The details

With the Kings clinging to a two-point lead in the final seconds, Zion Williamson attacked the rim, but Cardwell met him at the basket and delivered a emphatic rejection. On the next possession, Jeremiah Fears drove to the hoop, but Cardwell again came up with a crucial block after video review overturned an initial foul call. Cardwell's defensive stops capped off a strong all-around game, as he finished with 5 blocks, 8 rebounds, and 6 points off the bench.

  • The game was played on Friday, April 4, 2026.
  • Cardwell's two key blocks came in the final 10.7 seconds of the game.

The players

Dylan Cardwell

A reserve center for the Sacramento Kings who made the game-saving defensive plays in the final seconds.

Maxime Raynaud

The Kings' leading scorer, shooting 11-for-14 from the floor for 28 points.

Nique Clifford

The Kings' second-leading scorer with 23 points, including a crucial free throw late in the game.

Zion Williamson

The Pelicans' star forward, who was held to 13 points, well below his season average.

Jeremiah Fears

The Pelicans' reserve guard who scored a team-high 28 points off the bench.

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What they’re saying

“We must have that kind of defensive intensity and hustle if we want to win close games. Dylan really stepped up when we needed him most.”

— Mike Brown, Kings Head Coach

“It's tough to lose another close one, but we have to give credit to the Kings' defense. They made the plays when it counted.”

— Willie Green, Pelicans Head Coach

What’s next

The Kings will look to build on this win as they continue their push for a playoff spot, while the Pelicans will try to end their seven-game skid in their next game.

The takeaway

This game showcased the Kings' defensive grit and ability to make winning plays down the stretch, even against a struggling opponent. Cardwell's late-game heroics were a prime example of how role players can step up and make an impact when it matters most.