AD makes Pelicans history, NOLA shocks OKC 114-100
By Chris Conner
The Pelicans came into Friday’s contest with the deck quite stacked against them. Still recovering from the effects of the DeMarcus Cousins injury, a win with a full roster is tough. The Pelicans obviously didn’t care, undermanned in all, pulled out one of their more impressive wins of the season. It is clear at this point that they will not go away anytime soon.
What we liked: The fight in the first half
When you come into a game with 10 players, and two you’d rather not play, times are rough. Throw in you’re playing in a place you haven’t won in four games, and the road to victory should be a steep one. When the Pelicans were down 16 in the second quarter they could have easily mailed it in. Instead, they fought to bring the deficit to four at halftime. They don’t have an opportunity to pull away late without early resilience.
What we didn’t like: The Turnovers
In a game that most chalked up as a loss, it’s hard to complain about the night. But if we had to pick an area it would be the turnovers. The Pelicans couldn’t really afford to be turnover prone with Boogie Cousins. So having 16 without him can’t happen. Too many times players are often trying to simply do too much in a given possession. It’s been a bugaboo all year, we’ll settle for just a few less a game.
When it was over: Anthony Davis at the 1:20 mark.
The next play AD banged in a three to stretch the Pels’ lead to 13. But if the Thunder had any remaining chance left, they needed to score before the minute mark.
Takeaways:
1. Diallo emerges!
One of the wildcards for the Pelicans coming into this season was Cheick Diallo. You either believe he’s too young to produce this season, or he needs an extended run. Tonight he showed well for those that were a believer in him. If he can stay out of foul trouble and remain confident in his talents, Diallo can possibly be a long term contributor.
2. Another monster night for AD in OKC
Your favorite AD in OKC moment doesn’t have to be mentioned. We know what it is, but tonight was still special. Not only did Davis finish 43 and 10 but his 32nd point made him the Pelicans all-time leader in scoring. There’s just something about that building, that he loves.
3. Rondo’s extended minutes
The Pelicans lack playmakers currently. So they could no longer afford to have Rajon Rondo only start the 1st and 3rd quarters. Against the Thunder he played over 30 and had one of his better performances of the season. Rondo’s shooting improvements no longer make him the liability he used to be. His issues rely on the defensive side where simply applied efforts consistently will suffice. But If he can put up close to a triple double every night, that may not matter.
Next: How To Save The Pelicans Season With One Simple Signing
Up Next: Minnesota Timberwolves
Back to backs are never fun. They’re even worse when you’re going into a team’s building you haven’t beat all year. But be prepared as always to expect the unexpected with the Pels. Niko Mirotic will also be avaliable. Stay tuned!