:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/42945400/20141028_pjc_ah6_095.JPG.0.jpg)
Playing on opening night for the second straight season, the Orlando Magic traveled to New Orleans to take on the Anthony Davis led Pelicans. Behind Davis' big night, the Pelicans thumped the Magic, 101-84.
After a somewhat slow and sluggish start, the Magic found their groove, thanks in large part to a big first quarter from Nikola Vucevic. Vucevic, who celebrated his 24th birthday on Friday, led all players with 10 points and seven rebounds in the quarter. Aided by the Pelicans shooting a woeful 3-of-11 from the free throw line, the Magic found themselves with a slim 25-24 lead after one.
In the second quarter, the wheels began to fall off for the Magic. New Orleans grabbed 13 of their 17 first half offensive rebounds in the quarter, while also forcing five Magic turnovers, leading to six points. The Pelicans used their ability to penetrate to their advantage, scoring 40 of their 48 first half points in the painted area. At the half, New Orleans found themselves on top 48-41.
Out of halftime, the Magic showed signs of life, fighting their way back into the lead early in the quarter. However, the Pelicans answered in a big way, pushing the lead to a then game up 14 at the end of the quarter. Former Magic big man Ryan Anderson torched his former team late, scoring the last 11 points of the quarter for New Orleans, including three three-pointers.
With the game in control, the Pelicans continued to build their lead with strong play on both ends of the floor. Anthony Davis continued his pure dominance on both ends, blocking shots, grabbing rebounds, and scoring in a multitude of ways.
New Orleans was led by their front court of Davis, Omer Asik and Anderson, who combined for 62 points and 43 rebounds. Davis led all scorers with 26, adding 17 rebounds and nine blocks along with way. Anderson score 22 and grabbed nine rebounds off the bench, while Asik tallied 14 points, 17 rebounds and five blocks. Tyreke Evans rounded out the Pelicans in double figures, finishing with 12. New Orleans dominated Orlando in the painted area, outscoring the visiting Magic 64-to-48.
Orlando was led by Tobias Harris, who finished with 25 on the night. After his big first quarter, Vucevic notched 15 points and 23 rebounds. Evan Fournier and Aaron Gordon rounded out the Magic men in double figures, finishing with 11 each.