Pelicans downed by Wizards, 124-114

Whether they have Anthony Davis or not, the Pelicans need to play better defense.

That was the message Saturday night from New Orleans coach Alvin Gentry after the Washington Wizards shot 57 percent from the field and beat the Pelicans 124-114 at Capital One Arena.

The ringleader was Otto Porter, Jr., who had 16 of his 29 points in the first quarter and was 12 of 15 from the field, including three of four from long range.