Pelicans Bounce Back, Squash Lakers

New Orleans Pelicans star Anthony Davis returned to the floor Wednesday night after missing the previous 3 contests with a toe injury. His effect on the game was undeniable, and the Pelicans earned a 96-80 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers Wednesday night at the Smoothie King Center.

A stat line of 29 points on 11-18 shooting, 8 rebounds and 4 blocks seemed unlikely early on for Davis, as he struggled to find his rhythm in the first quarter.

"I hadn't played in three games and it's tough to come back and get going," explained Davis. "They (teammates) were looking for me throughout the game to make sure I got going...I missed shots early, but I didn't let it bother me...I started to get into a groove at the end of the game."

Pelicans guard Eric Gordon (pictured) registered his first double-double as a Pelicans, scoring 17 points and dishing out 10 assists.

"That's what Eric does," said Davis of his teammate. "He can score the ball and make plays for others. We need him to do that every night. We're going to him."

Tyreke Evans scored 19, while Quincy Pondexter added 12 off the bench.

Evans continues to start at point guard, as Jrue Holiday is out with stress reaction in his right lower leg. The team announced today he would miss another two to four weeks.

With the victory, the Pelicans get back to the .500 mark at 21-21. Next up, a Friday night road matchup with the Minnesota Timerwolves. Tip-off is set for 7:00.