In his first game against his former team, New Orleans Pelicans’ star center DeMarcus Cousins took over and helped the Pels dominate the Kings at home.
The New Orleans Pelicans hosted the Sacramento Kings in tonight’s game. It was the first game for DeMarcus Cousins against his former team. Tonight was also the first game that Buddy Hield, Tyreke Evans and Langston Galloway returned to the Smoothie King Center, since the trade.
To put it simply, tonight became a highly emotional game. A statement game of sorts for both teams.
However, the story of the game became the Pelicans making their statement loud and clear.
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New Orleans took a 31-19 first quarter advantage and did not look back. The Pelicans used 10 made three-pointers, blocked 13 shots and finished with 17 steals on 21 Kings turnovers in the win. New Orleans took advantage in transition, helping them shoot 48.4 percent from the field.
The Pelicans got the crowd behind them and kept them excited throughout the game. From highlight reel putbacks to athletic blocks, New Orleans kept the excitement up all night. It took Sacramento out of their rhythm and eventually out of the game.
DeMarcus led the charge for the Pelicans, with 37 points, 13 rebounds, three steals and two blocks. Anthony Davis was the other star, with 19 points, 12 rebounds and five blocks.
Ben McLemore was the leading scorer for the Kings, with 15 points and eight rebounds off the bench. This win puts the Pelicans 4.5 games back of the Portland Trail-Blazers of the final playoff spot out West. There are only six games remaining on the Pels’ schedule.
Final Thoughts:
- Quinn Cook, Donatas Motiejunas and Cheick Diallo all saw three minutes of garbage time tonight as well. Cook was the only one who put up any real statistics, with five points on two made baskets. One of the most impressive things about Cook is his drive. After the game, he was seen shooting around, practicing his game even more. He wants an NBA job. If he can continue to do things like he did in his brief minutes tonight, he can certainly achieve that.
- This game was an emotional roller coaster for the Pelicans. However, it was also a much needed win. New Orleans wants Boogie to become comfortable in this city and the move to his new NBA home. The crowd certainly gave him all the love he could want, after his spirited performance tonight. As a Pels fan, tonight could not have gone better.
Next: Five Free Agents Targets for New Orleans Pelicans: Part Two
The New Orleans Pelicans will look to keep the good times rolling at home Sunday. They will play their final game versus an Eastern Conference foe, with a game against the Chicago Bulls. Tip-off is on schedule for 5:00 p.m. CST.