Hornets Hit Losing Note Versus Jazz, Eric Gordon Benched After Shouting Match With Coach
The New Orleans Hornets have not won a road game in nearly two months (Feb, 11 @ Pistons). One has to wonder if they can get over the psychological hurdle of winning away from the New Orleans Arena.
Last night was no different for the Hornets in Salt Lake City. The Utah Jazz ran away with the game in the 4th quarter, defeating New Orleans 95-83, thanks in large part to the Hornets bench and their inability to make a shot.
Ryan Anderson, usually a reliable scorer off the bench, only scored 4 points (all free throws). As a whole, New Orleans bench was 2-25 from the field.
To make matters worse, starting shooting guard Eric Gordon got into a shouting match with head coach Monty Williams at the 8:37 mark of the third quarter. He sat the bench for the remainder of the game.
"It was his decision just to take me out of the game for the rest of the game. I thought we were in a good flow. You always make adjustments throughout the game. We're down at halftime by two points, and two or three possessions in the third quarter, I'm out of there. I'd love to figure it out," Gordon told the Times-Picayune in post game. "I definitely wanted to be out there for sure." Gordon benched in Hornets loss, The Times-Picayune
This development will add to the off season storyline of Gordon's future with the Hornets/Pelicans. Many believe he's never wanted to play in the Crescent City. Will he be traded? Time will tell, but his market value isn't great due to his recent injury history and large contract.
On a positive note, Anthony Davis chipped in a double-double of 24 points and 12 rebounds. Greivis Vasquez added 21 points and 9 assists.
New Orleans will try to snap their 10-game road losing streak tomorrow night in Phoenix. Tip-off versus the Suns is set for 8:00.