Amid a tough season plagued by injuries and setbacks, the New Orleans Pelicans found a silver lining in CJ McCollum, whose recent scoring explosion has etched his name alongside some of basketball’s all-time greats.
Despite a dismal 12-32 record, the veteran guard has been a beacon of hope for the Pelicans, stepping up as the primary offensive weapon with stars Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and Dejounte Murray sidelined for extended periods.
McCollum’s Career Night Against the Jazz
On Monday night, McCollum delivered a 45-point masterpiece in a thrilling 123-119 overtime victory against the Utah Jazz. After falling behind by 25 points in the first half, McCollum led a furious rally, scoring 18 points in the fourth quarter to complete the comeback.
The performance marked McCollum’s second 45-plus-point game of the season, following his 50-point explosion against the Washington Wizards earlier this month.
Joining an Elite Scoring Club
Unbeknownst to him at the time, McCollum’s latest feat placed him in a legendary scoring club. According to Basketball Reference, McCollum became just the 11th player in NBA history to record multiple 45-point games in a season at age 33 or older.
He now shares this distinction with icons like Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Stephen Curry, Kevin Durant, and Hakeem Olajuwon—a testament to his enduring excellence.
A Chance to Break New Ground
With 38 games left in the season, McCollum has a shot at joining even more exclusive company. If he delivers another 45-point outing, he’ll tie Curry, James, and Durant as the only players at age 33 or older with three or more 45-point games in a single season.
Trade Rumors Intensify
While McCollum’s brilliance has kept the Pelicans competitive, it has also drawn attention from teams eyeing him as a potential trade target. As the Feb. 6 trade deadline nears, McCollum’s value as a veteran scorer and leader has never been higher.
For now, McCollum continues to focus on helping New Orleans salvage its season. Even if the Pelicans don’t make a playoff push, McCollum’s heroic performances have proven that his career is far from over—and he remains one of the NBA’s most reliable offensive forces.