DeMarcus Cousins bags his first triple double of the season against the Cavs
It’s hard to say it’s been a year of ups and downs for anyone this soon into NBA season, but that’s exactly what it’s been for the Cleveland Cavaliers and the New Orleans Pelicans. When DeMarcus Cousins and Anthony Davis are working on the same page they’re nearly unstoppable, but when they’re off the Pelicans look dreadful. In Cleveland, the Cavs have looked like world beaters in some games and the bottom of the barrel in others.
On Saturday the Cavs looked out of synch as they played musical chairs with their lineup in their fourth straight game minus point guard Derrick Rose. The Pelicans on the other hand looked every part of a playoff contender on their four quarter cruise control blow out of the Cavaliers at home.
Anthony Davis dominated his defenders with a 30 point 14 rebound effort, but it was DeMarcus Cousins who paved the way to victory for the Pelicans. Cousins posted 29 points, 12 rebounds and 10 assists in his first triple double of the season and made it look easy as New Orleans won 123-101.
Cleveland was outrebounded and outplayed by they Pelicans and threw the ball away 18 times throughout the contest. They’re transition to a small ball lineup has helped them in their battle to stay competitive with the Golden State Warriors, but has shown to be costly against big bruisers like the more physical New Orleans Pelicans.
The Cavs took the loss on this night, but more than likely be the ones to reach the NBA Finals at seasons end. Operating without guards Isaiah Thomas and his backup Derricks Rose will pose problems for the team going forward, but once they make their return to the hardcourt, the Cavs should trod out a more potent unit both on the bench and in their starting lineup.
If they ever find the chemistry necessary to take down their longstanding rivals, The Golden State Warriors, the rest of the league should be terrified. With a star studded starting five and the deepest bench in the NBA, the Cavs could be poised to do some legitimate damage.
