In surprising fashion, the New Orleans Hornets defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 90-83 at the Arena. Not only was this a win by a non-negligible margin, but the Hornets led for the entire second half with the lead ranging from 1 to 16 points.

The Hornets starting frontcourt played for 67 minutes scored 41 points on 26 shots, went 7 of 10 at the line, and added 25 rebounds, 11 of them offensive. Their Memphian counterparts played for 66 minutes, scored 30 points on 27 shots, went 2 of 3 from the line, and added only 15 total rebounds, 9 of them offensive. The Hornets led the Grizzles with an ORB% of over 42% compared to the Grizzles’ 25%.

The guard play is a different story entirely, of course. In their 67 minutes played, Gordon and Vasquez combined for 23 points on 26 shots, 11 assists compared to 6 turnovers, and 3 rebounds. Conley and Allen’s 62 minutes delivered 28 points on 17 shots, converted 9 free throws of 11 attempts, had 6 assists compared to 3 turnovers, and added 6 rebounds.

With Anderson limited due some foul trouble, the Hornets could never really ice the game, allowing the Grizzlies to pull to within 2 with 2:35 left to play. A Vasquez 3, assisted by Gordon, quelled the push by Memphis.

Looking back to Mason’s keys to game, we see that the Hornets did in fact box out and held the Grizzlies to 0 corner 3’s, but did not protect the ball, giving the ball up 17 times for 26 points.

The now 24-46 Hornets play the first of their last 12 games of the Hornets as game 4 of the current home stand against Denver Monday night.

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