New Orleans Pelicans Grades: Pelicans Fall Short Against Thunder

Feb 26, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Tim Frazier (2) moves to the basket in front of Oklahoma City Thunder forward Doug McDermott (25) during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 26, 2017; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; New Orleans Pelicans guard Tim Frazier (2) moves to the basket in front of Oklahoma City Thunder forward Doug McDermott (25) during the second quarter at Chesapeake Energy Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark D. Smith-USA TODAY Sports

The New Orleans Pelicans kept it close all game, yet fell short at the end of their loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder, their third loss in a row.

Even thought tonight was a closer contest, the New Orleans Pelicans could not get the job.

The Pelicans lost their third straight game in a row after the Trade Deadline, losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder 118-110.

After keeping the game close for three straight quarters, the wheels fell off for New Orleans. Even with their 37 free throw attempts in the game, they fell short on the defensive end. The Pels gave up 37 free-throw attempts of their own. Their poor defense let the thunder shoot 47.7 percent from the field and command the game.

Foul trouble was huge for New Orleans, as DeMarcus Cousins fouled out at a key moment of the game. Boogie only played 21 minutes tonight, but still had 31 points and 10 rebounds. Anthony Davis finished the leader in scoring for the Pels, with 38 points and seven boards.

Russell Westbrook led the Thunder with a triple-double of 41 points, 11 rebounds and 11 assists.

Other Observations:

  • The New Orleans Pelicans fan base is hitting the panic button of late. This is difficult for everyone involved. Learning over halfway through the season the team is going to change their offense, scheme and personnel is very difficult. While the wins are not coming, the improvement is. Tonight was much better than their past two games. While time is not on their side, neither are the circumstances. Patience, New Orleans…Patience.

Next: New Orleans Pelicans Waive Omri Casspi, Sign Reggie Williams

The New Orleans Pelicans will look to calm that panic at home Wednesday night. They will stay home, to host the Detroit Pistons. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CST.