Pelicans (4-5), Mavericks (1-9)
DALLAS – Behind another big night from its All-Star duo and the team’s stingiest defensive performance of the season, New Orleans opened a four-game road trip with a victory, leading nearly all Friday in beating Dallas.
DeMarcus Cousins authored a 20-20 game (20 points, 22 rebounds, along with seven assists) while Anthony Davis led the New Orleans offensive attack with 30 points. Meanwhile, the Pelicans hadn’t given up fewer than 101 points in a game this season, but limited the Mavericks to just 94.
New Orleans grabbed a quick 15-5 edge and led every after quarter.