The New Orleans Pelicans held firm late after playing a spectacular first half, en route to defeating the Dallas Mavericks at home Wednesday night.
While it was not pretty, tonight was still a much needed win for the New Orleans Pelicans’ morale.
New Orleans had a lead as high as 10 in the second half, yet nearly let the Mavericks steal the game. Dallas even took the lead in the fourth quarter at one point. However, the Pelicans’ defense stood tall late and New Orleans found enough baskets to win the game.
The Pelicans shot over 50 percent from behind the arc tonight, making 14 of their 27 long ball attempts. They also won the battle of free throws, earning 33 attempts to the Mavs 17. Still, New Orleans missed eight of those attempts, while Dallas only missed on one.
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The Pelicans saw most of their scoring from their big three. Jrue Holiday, Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins combined for 77 of the Pelicans’ 121 points. For those wondering, the other two starters combined for nine points total. On the other hand, Dallas saw eight players score at least seven points in the game. All of the Mavericks’ 11 players who saw action scored a basket tonight. To give the Pels’ credit, the same went for all eight of their guys in action.
Anthony Davis did beat out DeMarcus Cousins in scoring, but not by much. Davis finished with 30 points, 13 rebounds and two steals. Cousins would finish with 29 points, 16 rebounds and six assists. Dirk Nowitzki led the Mavericks with 23 points, seven assists and a block.
Final Thought:
- These final games for the New Orleans Pelicans are a growing process still. Tonight’s win might seem minor, but showing DeMarcus Cousins what this team can become is big. New Orleans wants to make the playoffs next year and turn a roster of fun players, into a contender. The first step to that is learning how to win and how to win often. If the Pelicans can end this year on a solid run of wins, next year could be in line for something special.
Next: The New Orleans Pelicans Playoff Push & What It Means Long Term
The New Orleans Pelicans will continue the search for late season wins Friday night. They will stay home to host the Sacramento Kings, in Buddy Hield, Langston Galloway and Tyreke Evans’ first games back in New Orleans since the trade. Tip-off is on schedule for 7:00 p.m. CST.