Vastly undermanned, the New Orleans Pelicans hung on to force overtime in Detroit on Monday before controlling the extra session to win 117-110 over the Pistons.
The Good: Overtime
There’s a lot of things that could be the good takeaway tonight but it’s the overtime session that takes the cake. After collapsing in the fourth quarter, seeing its lead crumble and managing just 13 points total. Fortunately, Derrick Rose’s game-winner at the end of regulation bounced long and the sides went to overtime.
And after its putrid offensive showing in the fourth, the Pelicans scored 15 points in the overtime to close out a huge road win. Nicolo Melli made some big plays and hit some big shots as did Lonzo Ball. In the end, that was enough to earn the victory.
Honorable Mentions: Jahlil Okafor, Frank Jackson, Melli’s overtime
The Bad: Turnovers
On top of the fourth quarter being horrible, the Pistons were largely only in the game due to miscues by the Pelicans. New Orleans finished with 19 turnovers that Detroit turned into 29 points, outscoring the Pelicans by 19 points in points off turnovers.
Turnovers have been a problem throughout the year. On Monday, it was a little more explanatory with so many players in unfamiliar positions but doesn’t make it any more acceptable.
The Ball: Inefficient but important
A look at the stat line would show a largely inefficient night for Ball. Despite again flirting with his second triple-double of the day with 17 points, 12 rebounds and nine assists, Ball shot just 7-of-23 from the field and turned the ball over seven times.
However, like the rest of his teammates, Ball was in a different role than normal. As the lone regular starter on the night, Ball was leaned upon more heavily than normal. But he came up with some big plays down the stretch and did enough to help the Pelicans to the win which is all that matters at the end of the day.
