Bobcats Bite Pelicans 90-87

The Pelicans (23-31) made more field goals and shot a better percentage than the Bobcats, but lost. Charlotte defeated New Orleans Friday night by the score of 90-87, thanks in large part to 36 trips to the free throw line.

New Orleans was called for 27 fouls, while Charlotte was charged with 16. The Pelicans were 8-11 from the free throw line, 4 of which came in the final minute. Charlotte was 25-36 from the charity stripe, taking advantage of the opportunity.

"They got 36 free throws and we got 11," said Pelicans coach Monty Williams. "So you figure that out."

New Orleans had trouble "figuring out" Al Jefferson. Charlotte's Center was a man amongst boys Friday night, forcing the issue in the paint all night. He ended the game with 33 points, 10 rebounds, and attempted 30 shots.

Brian Roberts led the Pelicans in scoring with 20 points, while Anthony Davis chipped in his usual double-double, finishing the contest with 18 points, 13 rebounds, 4 blocks, and 4 assists. Unfortunately for New Orleans, they're offense was anemic in the first 2 quarters, as they went into halftime with only 32 points.

"We couldn't put the ball in the bucket in the first half," Davis explained. "We played great defensively, but it's tough to get out of that hole."

The Pelicans will play the second game of a road back-to-back on Saturday, as they battle the Washington Wizards. Tip-off is set for 6:00.