Postgame wrap: Pelicans 108, Warriors 100
At times early in the 2019-20 season, NBA rookies Nickeil Alexander-Walker, Nicolo Melli and Jaxson Hayes haven’t played major minutes, as they attempt to cement roles in the New Orleans rotation. Amid widespread injuries, the newcomers – two are first-year pros, the latter boasts vast international experience – were vital contributors Sunday, allowing the Pelicans to prevail despite being severely shorthanded. Only nine players were available in a white uniform against Golden State, but six of them cracked double digits in points. Alexander-Walker followed up his 27-point outing at Miami 24 hours earlier with 19 points, while Hayes notched his first NBA double-double (10 points, 10 rebounds). Melli played his best offensive game of the season, notching 16 points, including five three-pointers made.
JJ Redick, Pelicans bomb away early and often to beat shorthanded Warriors
Antonio Daniels last played in the NBA in 2011, but before Sunday’s game, Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry warned the team’s color TV analyst that he might need to stay limber.
Redick scores 26, Pelicans top reeling Warriors 108-100
NEW ORLEANS — Jrue Holiday looked to find J.J. Redick shot opportunities early and often against Golden State, and Reddick validated Holiday’s approach in short order.
NBA is ‘a different weight class’ for Jaxson Hayes, but Pelicans rookie is adjusting well
The plan was always to bring Jaxson Hayes along slowly. If you’d asked Pelicans coach Alvin Gentry sometime last month if he envisioned Hayes starting before Christmas, he might’ve shot you a funny look.
