Rajon Rondo’s return to an NBA starting lineup was a Pelicans’ fans paradise. They were able to enjoy shining displays of passing and relaxing leads. But then, the first quarter ended and they were thrust back into a chilly mid-November.
After that early 34-29 lead, the New Orleans Pelicans were outscored 96-82 while the Raptors shot nearly 60 percent from the field. They allowed three of their players to score over 21 points and seven players to score over 10 points.
The Pelicans were able to do their own damage, shooting 50 percent from the field and collecting 31 assists.