The New Orleans Pelicans lost their third straight game Friday. It was also their second loss where star Anthony Davis didn’t finish the game. New Orleans did their best to rally late without him putting up a fight momentarily. In the end the offense staggered and defensively they were overmatched. Friday’s loss drops the Pelicans to 11-11.
What we liked:
The balanced play New Orleans showed through the game. Six Pelicans finished with double digits, as NOLA put together their best looking first half of the season.
The ball movement was crisp, and the defense had quality runs of closeouts and communication. Some of the Pelicans best play was featured with Anthony Davis of course on the floor. Which leads us to the bad news.
What we didn’t like:
Anthony Davis’ injury.
Early in the 4th quarter Pelicans and NBA fans clutched their hearts. Star Anthony Davis collapsed to the ground holding his leg in pain. Non contact injuries are very dangerous, especially when the legs are involved. The early news is that he suffered a strained groin with an MRI pending.
Alvin Gentry tells reporters Davis has a strained groin, MRI tomorrow. Doubtful he'll play tomorrow vs. Portland
— Will Guillory (@WillGuillory) December 2, 2017
We can only hope the injury isn’t longterm as NOLA is a different team without Davis.
When it was over:
When Donovan Mitchell nailed two free throws with 21.2 left.
After a back and forth contest the Pelicans just had no answers late for the guard play of the Jazz. Rookie stud Donovan Mitchell scored a career high with 41. Alec Burks also provided a punch finishing with 24 points.
Takeaways
1: DeMarcus Cousins’ patience.
NBA teams have grown accustomed to an overly aggressive Boogie Cousins. Up until AD’s injury Cousins was patient and made fairly good decisions all game long.
Nothing was forced, and the Pelicans became less predictable, giving more space and opportunity for their shooters. It’ll be interesting to see if he can keep that mentality if AD’s injury lingers.
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2: Darius Miller is for real.
At some point there may need to be some national recognition for Darius Miller. He finished with another impressive game, pouring in 15 points off the bench including 4 three’s. He also made smart play making decisions and had the Pels threatening late up by 6.
Darius Miller has also been so good at driving and hitting a cutter. His improvement continues to astound me #Pelicans pic.twitter.com/sXL83A9imM
— Justin Jett (@JustinJett_) December 2, 2017
New Orleans will take as much of “Miller time” as they can get.
3. Another game in Portland without AD.
A back to back is difficult, doing it without your best player is four times as hard. NOLA’s difficultly in Portland has been deeply documented. They’ve struggled immensely in recent memory, and will have their hands full Saturday. The need for an inspired effort is an understatement.
Next: New Orleans Pelicans Player of the Week: Anthony Davis and his elite efficiency
Up Next:
Portland 12/2
New Orleans has done a lot well since the last time they faced Portland. A win without Anthony Davis would loom large down the road. But facing a hot team on the road, isn’t ideal for any team undermanned, down a star. Stay Tuned!