Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado got into it with Suns big man Mark Williams late in the third quarter, which ultimately resulted in both players getting ejected. Alvarado, 27, shoved Williams as he attempted to get around a screen set by the center.

In the third quarter of the game, Pelicans guard Jose Alvarado picked up a foul after attempting to fight through a screen by Suns center Mark Williams. Alvarado and Williams then exchanged shoves, which prompted a fight. Both players were ultimately ejected from the contest.

It wasn’t just a basketball game in New Orleans on Saturday night; it was a test of wills, a physical grind, and eventually, a statement victory for the Suns.

The Cavs took care of business at home vs. the Pelicans. A road trip awaits, beginning with a Christmas Day game at the New York Knicks.

The stretch of the Pelicans’ schedule from Dec. 9-16 remains TBD, but the club will have a pair of games added to its slate (one home, one road).

The New Orleans Pelicans host the Phoenix Suns in back-to-back home games on Friday and Saturday. After winning five of their last six games, the Pels have positive momentum ahead of a three-game home stretch that could help them climb further up the Western Conference standings.

Zion Williamson is embracing the sixth man role for the Pelicans as he works his way back from his injury woes.