Herb Jones joins Chris Paul in New Orleans history with a wild 8-steal game

Herb Jones accomplished the franchise feat that Chris Paul last accomplished in New Orleans Pelicans vs. Houston Rockets match on Thursday night.

Jones is in the fifth season of his NBA career, all with the Pelicans. He developed into a solid two-way player for the team, especially on the defensive side of the ball as one of their best defenders.

His ability to steal at a high level had to shine in the spotlight during New Orleans’ contest against Houston. In 38 minutes of action, he finished with 18 points, eight steals, three rebounds, three assists and a block. He shot 7-of-14 from the field, including 2-of-6 from beyond the arc and 2-of-2 from the free throw line.

Jones’ efforts he finished in franchise historyaccording to StatMuse. He became the second New Orleans player to have eight or more steals in a game, joining Paul in the process.

Herb Jones vs. Houston:

8 STL (!!!)
18 PTS
+20

First player in franchise history since Chris Paul with 8+ steals in a game. pic.twitter.com/2HfCA3FbiK

— StatMuse (@statmuse) December 19, 2025

As Herb Jones, the Pelicans played the Rockets

Herb Jones and the Pelicans finally got something going their way, stunning the Rockets in a 133-128 home victory.

Houston had a huge advantage for most of the game and led by as many as 25 points. New Orleans refused to quit as the team outscored the Rockets 74-52 over the final 24 minutes of regulation. The Pelicans kept the momentum going in overtime, winning that frame 14-9.

Free throws and turnovers made the difference in this match. The Pelicans dominated in both categories making 24 free throws while limiting their turnovers to just 12. It wasn’t the same for the Rockets as they converted 18 shots at the line and turned the ball over 20 times.

Five players scored in double figures for New Orleans in the win, including Jones. Sadiq Bey led the way with 29 points, nine rebounds, two steals and an assist. He shot 11-of-18 overall, including 3-of-5 from downtown and 4-of-4 from the charity stripe. It was Trey Murphy III’s turn with 27 points and three rebounds, Derrick Quinn had 16 points and 12 rebounds, while Jordan Poole had 15 points and three steals.

New Orleans improved to 6-22, but remained at the bottom of the Western Conference standings. They trail the Los Angeles Clippers by 0.5 games and the Sacramento Kings by one game.

With three straight wins, the Pelicans will be looking forward to their next game. They stay at home when they host the Indiana Pacers on December 20th at 7pm ET.