Pelica Debrief
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New Orleans Pelicans Grades: Pelicans dominate the Kings

By Nathan Heck

Jan 28, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson (33) shoots the ball over Sacramento Kings forward Omri Casspi (18) during the first quarter at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 28, 2016; New Orleans, LA, USA; New Orleans Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson (33) shoots the ball over Sacramento Kings forward Omri Casspi (18) during the first quarter at the Smoothie King Center. Mandatory Credit: Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports /
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The New Orleans Pelicans found a way to beat the Sacramento Kings despite being without Tyreke Evans and Anthony Davis.

The New Orleans Pelicans jumped out to a big lead early against the Sacramento Kings, and they never looked back. Without Anthony Davis and Tyreke Evans, this seemed to be the kind of game the Pelicans would lose. Demarcus Cousins has been crushing opponents throughout the month of January, and it was unclear how the Pelicans would mitigate his impact.

However, with strong performances from nearly the entire team on both sides of the ball, the Pelicans handled the visiting Kings fairly easily. Ryan Anderson tied his career-high scoring mark, and Bryce Dejean-Jones surprised many with his strong play in his first career start. Omer Asik held Cousins in check, and the Pelicans came out with a win.

69. Final. 105. 84. 114

PG. New Orleans Pelicans. NORRIS COLE. A. <strong><a href=

SG/SF. New Orleans Pelicans. BRYCE DEJEAN-JONES. B. Bryce Dejean-Jones performed very well in his first career start. Able to score when called upon, Dejean-Jones finished with 14 points including three of six from deep. There were a few defensive breakdowns, but he played well overall. It would not be surprising if the Pelicans offer him a contract if he continues to perform like he did against Sacramento.

SF. New Orleans Pelicans. ALONZO GEE. A+. <strong><a href=

A+. Ryan Anderson simply could not miss in the first half. His 30 point explosion helped the Pelicans get out to an early lead and control the game. Even though he only scored six in the second half, his presence opened up opportunities for teammates. On top of the scoring, Anderson also pulled in nine boards.. PF/C. New Orleans Pelicans. RYAN ANDERSON

OMER ASIK. A+. Omer Asik continues to steadily improve, and this may have been his most impressive game. Asik totaled 13 rebounds, four blocks and eight points. Playing exceptional defense, Asik was able to limit and frustrate Cousins whenever Asik was tasked with guarding the dominant offensive threat. . C. New Orleans Pelicans

<strong><a href=. PG/SG. New Orleans Pelicans. JRUE HOLIDAY. A-

ALEXIS AJINCA. D+. <strong><a href=. C. New Orleans Pelicans

D. <strong><a href=. PG/SG. New Orleans Pelicans. TONEY DOUGLAS

KENDRICK PERKINS. F. <strong><a href=. C. New Orleans Pelicans

Inc. <strong><a href=. PF/SF. New Orleans Pelicans. DANTE CUNNINGHAM

Next: Awards

Other observations:

  • Without two of their best players, the rest of the roster showed up to play. The top six players in the rotation all played exceptionally well.
  • Bryce Dejean-Jones showed the ability to make Alonzo Gee style effort plays on the defensive end and contribute on the offensive end. The Pelicans may very well offer him a contract.
  • Omer Asik continued his steady improvement against the Kings. His improvement over the last couple of months has been astounding, and he should see increased minutes in nearly every game going forward.
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