After a rough start to the season, the New Orleans Pelicans (4-11) won their 3rd straight Wednesday night, topping the Suns in Phoenix 120-114.

Anthony Davis was a monster, finishing with 26 points on 11-14 from the field, adding 17 rebounds, 2 steals and 2 blocks.

"It was a team effort. I'm just glad that we're starting to find our way," David said to FOX Sports New Orleans reporter Jen Hale after the win. "Even though we're struggling at the beginning of games, we're staying together as a unit and making sure we come out with a win."

The first quarter was bad for New Orleans, as Phoenix racked up 39 points, including 20 from Brandon Knight. Once the team started communicating on both ends of the floor, the tide began to turn.

Ryan Anderson
Photo by Stacy Revere/Getty Images
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"Defense. That first quarter, we weren't playing any defense. We came out playing lackadaisical and they were getting whatever they wanted," explained Davis. "We came back in the 2nd quarter and went into halftime only two. Coach told us to come out and play more aggressive."

Ish Smith had a career-night, hitting jumpers, creating offense, and hitting several 3s. His stat line 20 points (on 9 of 16 shooting), 11 assists, 5 rebounds and a steal are impressive for the point guard who was signed by New Orleans the day before the season opener due to a plethora of injuries to the position.

After trailing by 17 in the first quarter, the Pelicans chipped away, taking the lead in the 4th quarter. With several lead changes, it was several key defensive stops that helped propel the Pels to victory.

"We're starting to figure out how to play with each other," said Davis. "We're starting to share the ball...We're playing together, playing for each other, talking on defense. We've got to make sure we keep doing what we've been doing."

Ryan Anderson (pictured) scored 20 off the bench, while Eric Gordon finished with 23 and Jrue Holiday with 19.

Head coach Alvin Gentry's home is Phoenix. The club will share Thanksgiving dinner at Gentry's home before flying to Los Angeles for a Friday night matchup with the Clippers. Tip-off at the Staples Center is set for 9:30.

 

 

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