Garland Records Double-Double as Clippers Defeat Pelicans 139-123 to Snap Seven-Game Losing Streak

Clippers Break Seven-Game Skid With 39 Assists Against Pelicans

The Los Angeles Clippers snapped a seven-game losing streak by defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 139-123 on November 8, basket-count.com reported.

Darius Garland controlled the pace for Los Angeles with 24 points and 10 assists. The primary catalyst in the victory, however, was a balanced offensive attack that saw seven of the 13 players who took the floor score in double figures.

Rookies Spark Bench Production

Rookies Keaton Wagler and Baba Miller provided a major spark off the bench. Miller, the 36th overall pick in the second round, contributed 12 points, five rebounds, four assists, two steals, and two blocks. His basket late in the third quarter tied the game before he added an assist and a block to seize momentum.

Head coach Tyronn Lue praised the rookie’s impact after the win. “His energy, his ability to attack the basket, and his versatility defensively to guard different situations are all things we value. He gave us a fantastic effort tonight,” Lue said.

Wagler, selected fifth overall in the first round, scored 15 points in 18 minutes of action, shooting 3-of-4 from beyond the arc. “It’s the result of playing unselfish basketball. We wanted to sustain the energy of the starting unit and bring a high level of intensity,” Wagler said.

Clippers Reduce Turnovers Through Improved Ball Movement

The Clippers improved their ball movement, committing just 11 turnovers after averaging 19.4 per game early in the season. Several of those giveaways came during garbage time after the outcome was decided.

“We understood that turnovers were hurting us and costing us games, and we’ve kept showing the guys the film, so it’s good to see that work pay off,” Lue said. “Darius did a great job of attacking the defense before it could get set. Playing team basketball for 48 minutes and putting up 34 assists shows we made the right plays.”

Rui Hachimura Adds Two-Way Push

Starting forward Rui Hachimura energized the squad late in the second quarter by diving for a loose ball, then sinking a three-pointer that pushed the lead to 13 points. He followed up in the third quarter by driving into the paint for a dunk.

Hachimura finished with 14 points, three rebounds, two assists, and one steal in 26 minutes, while handling defensive assignments ranging from perimeter guards to interior post players.