The New Orleans Pelicans suffered their seventh consecutive loss, falling to Southwest Division rivals the Dallas Mavericks, 108-92 on Monday night.
It was also the Pelicans seventh loss in their last eight games against the Mavs.
The scenario was similar: an early double-digit lead, the loss of that lead, competitive moments followed by a series of mistakes, and ultimately, another stinging defeat.
After winning the first quarter, the Pelicans were outscored in each of the final three.
Jonas Valanciunas collected his ninth double-double in a row, finishing with 22 points and 11 rebounds.