Clippers beat Pelicans to end 7-game losing streak
(AP) — Darius Garland had 24 points and 10 assists, Brook Lopez added 20 points and the Los Angeles Clippers ended a seven-game losing streak with a 139-123 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night.Gradey Dick and rookie Keaton Wagler each scored 15 points and Rui Hachimura added 14 as the Clippers won for the first time since getting past the Sacramento Kings in the season opener.
Los Angeles Clippers clinched a crucial victory on Sunday night, ending a seven-game losing streak by defeating New Orleans Pelicans 139-123. Darius Garland led the Clippers with 24 points and 10 assists, while Brook Lopez contributed 20 points. The Clippers' resurgence began with a 15-6 run in the fourth quarter, which they capitalized on with a 117-101 halftime lead.
The pivotal moment came when Garland sank three free throws with 4:56 left, solidifying a 124-107 lead. This marked the Clippers' first win since their season opener against Sacramento Kings. Rookie Keaton Wagler and Rui Hachimura added 15 and 14 points respectively, while Gradey Dick chipped in with 15 points. Zion Williamson and Jeremiah Fears each scored 25 points for the Pelicans, who suffered their second consecutive loss following a four-game winning streak.
Trey Murphy III contributed 26 points for New Orleans. The Pelicans struggled, shooting only 50.6% from the floor and failing to dominate in the paint, where they averaged 61.6 points per game throughout the NBA. Los Angeles dominated the night, shooting a season-best 54.8% from the floor, taking a 67-60 halftime lead through Garland's 17 points.
New Orleans opened the second half with an 18-10 run to reclaim the lead at 78-77. The Clippers are set to face Phoenix on Tuesday night, while the Pelicans travel to face Golden State on Monday night.
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