Pelicans beat Grizzlies to end nine-game losing streak

All bad things must come to an end.

The New Orleans Pelicans ended a nine-game losing streak Saturday evening, defeating Memphis 112-101 at Smoothie King Center.

The win gave first-year head coach Willie Green his first home victory and it was sweet and a welcome relief.

New Orleans came out of the gate smoking and built a 35-22 lead after one quarter and New Orleans would maintain that edge throughout. The lead grew to 62-44 by halftime.

It was nice to see Brandon Ingram back on the floor. He was obviously missed and with his return, the bench became instantly better with Garrett Temple returning to that role and with the boost from rookies Herbert Jones and Trey Murphy III.

Ingram played 29 minutes and scored 19 points, giving the Pelicans a much needed scoring option.

Nickeil Alexander-Walker led a balanced attack with 21 points while Devonte Graham scored 15 points.

Jonas Valancuinas continued his amazing streak of double-doubles with 15 points and 10 rebounds, making all three of his 3-point attempts.

Josh Hart added 11 assists.

Murphy scored eight points in just 10 minutes off the bench, including sinking 2-of-3 from 3-point range.

Perhaps the most impressive player was Jones, who continues to shine as one of the better draft picks in the league, based on where he was selected earlier this year.

Not known for his scoring or shooting, Jones pumped in 17 points, including 3-of-4 from 3-point range. Jones added six rebounds in 29 minutes and, as always, was a force on the defensive end of the floor.

The Pelicans shot it very well, making 14-of-29 from 3-point range and played solid defense throughout.

It is important to see Alexander-Walker playing well again.

After going through a very difficult shooting slump, Alexander-Walker has found himself of late.

Over his last four games, Alexander-Walker has averaged 22 points a game while shooting nearly 46 percent from the field. The Pelicans need Alexander-Walker to continue that productivity.

New Orleans travels to Washington to face the Wizards on Monday night.