Clippers beat Pelicans 139-126
Garland led the effort as Los Angeles snapped a seven-game losing streak and doubled their season win total.
By Lucas Sheridan ·
The Los Angeles Clippers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 139-126 on Sunday night. The victory snapped a seven-game losing streak and gave the team its second win of the season. They improved to 2-7 while holding the Pelicans to a lower score in a game that saw high shooting percentages.
The team shot 54.8% from the field, which is a season-high for the Clippers. They committed only 11 turnovers, minimizing errors that had plagued them in recent losses. A decisive fourth-quarter run sealed the game, and the team locked down defensively in the final minutes to secure the result.
Point guard Darius Garland led the offense with 24 points and 10 assists. He credited the team for playing with focus and avoiding panic after losing a double-digit lead. “I guess we win when we are trying to play the right way, trying to play Clippers basketball,” Garland said.
Bench players provided a surge of energy that kept the offense moving. Rookie guard Keaton Wagler finished with 15 points on 4-of-5 shooting despite early foul trouble. Gradey Dick contributed 15 points on 6-for-7 shooting, along with four rebounds and two steals. Kobe Sanders and Baba Miller also had strong performances off the bench, bringing physicality and intensity.
Coach Tyronn Lue emphasized the importance of ball security and unselfish play. “Just taking care of the basketball, making the simple plays,” Lue said. “Our whole model and theme all year has been making a play for your teammate, and I thought they did a good job with that tonight.”
The Clippers play on the road Tuesday night against the Phoenix Suns. The Suns are 3-5 after winning their last two games, including a close victory over the Houston Rockets. The game is scheduled for 6 p.m. PT at the Mortgage Matchup Center. ClipperVision and 570 AM will carry the broadcast.
Following the Phoenix game, the Clippers return home Friday to face the Oklahoma City Thunder. The Thunder hold an 8-2 record. Garland noted that the team is confident despite missing players Brandon Ingram, Bradley Beal, and Yanic Konan Niederhauser. “We’re going to be alright,” Garland said. “This group is super confident in themselves and us, period.”
