Clippers snap seven-game losing streak with 139-123 win over Pelicans

Darius Garland scored 24 points and handed out 10 assists, and Brook Lopez added 20 points as the Los Angeles Clippers ended a seven-game losing streak with a 139-123 win over the New Orleans Pelicans on Sunday night in Inglewood, California.

Clippers pull away in the fourth quarter

Los Angeles had lost its previous two games after failing to hold on to double-digit leads in the fourth quarter. This time it made sure of the result. The Clippers opened the final period with a 15-6 run to move ahead 117-101, then finished off the victory. Garland hit three free throws to put them up 124-107 with 4:56 remaining, and the team cruised from there, posting its highest point total of the season.

The Clippers shot a season-best 54.8% from the floor. They had led 67-60 at halftime after shooting 52.3% in the first half, with Garland contributing 14 points before the break.

Supporting scoring for Los Angeles

Gradey Dick and rookie Keaton Wagler each scored 15 points, and Rui Hachimura added 14. The Clippers had won for the first time since their season opener against the Sacramento Kings, and the victory broke a run of defeats that had lasted seven games.

Pelicans fall after a four-game winning streak

Trey Murphy III led New Orleans with 26 points, while Zion Williamson and Jeremiah Fears each added 25. Saddiq Bey had 13 points. Williamson had 17 at halftime for the Pelicans. The loss was their second straight, ending a four-game winning streak.

New Orleans reached 50.6% shooting from the floor and opened the second half with an 18-10 run that gave it its first lead since the opening minute, 78-77. The Pelicans were also held to 52 points in the paint, a notable drop for a team that had been averaging 61.6 paint points per game, the best mark in the NBA. The game was the opener of a two-game California trip.

Injury updates and next games

Los Angeles was without center Isaiah Jackson, who is dealing with a groin issue. Former Pelicans star Brandon Ingram, who has a heel injury, was also out. He is close to his debut for his new team.

New Orleans continues its trip on Monday night at Golden State. The Clippers play at Phoenix on Tuesday night.