Even as I watched this game, I didn't know how to actually feel about it. There were things to like, but in the midst of sloppy game in the first half, I found myself happy with the way New Orleans played. Much of that was due to the Pelicans' defensive work. The Pelicans looked good, had really good moments through the game but in the end, they fall short. Overall, I think it was a game where the Pelicans drop a game, but had a moment the team and coaching staff hope they can build on.
Back to the defensive side of the ball, New Orleans' defense was kinetic in the first half, moving around, great rotations forcing turnovers and scoring on them and overall running the quarter.