Even if water has flowed under the bridges, CJ McCollum It seems never forgotten that the Kings had not drafted it in 2013, preferring Ben McLemore to him. Regularly, the back of the pelicans is happy to give them cold sweats. This season, in four matches, he crossed the 30 -point mark three times and that night, it finally resulted in a victory!
Author of 43 points, McCollum is a double blow: he stops the series of defeat of the Pelicans, and he has been the first pelican, since Anthony Davis, to sign three matches at 40 points and more in the same season.
“CJ is incredible”, repeats Willie Green, the pelicans coach. “He is one of those guys who link to our young guys. This is an essential element for us. He gives everything he has every night and tonight, he worn when we needed it. »»
Author of six points in the first period against the Kings, the former Blazers will fly over the second half, but also and above all the extension. He scored 37 points after the break, including 11 in overtime to tear off the victory (140-133). It was close to him to catch up after missing the winner's basket after Malik Monk's free throws.
“I should have completed the match in regulation time. Finally, I did it in overtime ” Smiles McCollumwhich prevents pelicans with an 11th rank. “I don't know where we would be without his leadership” sighs his coach.
“I don't want to be said that I let go of a season”
Without McCollum, the Pelicans would certainly always be good, but perhaps in the running towards the worst assessment of history. It will not be for this season since they reach the all-star Game cut with 13 victories, and McCollum repeats that he will not let go this season. It is not in its mentality of “tanker”.
“Beyond the stats, consistency, work ethics and leadership that count” he confides. “How do I behave in the locker room?” What example I give despite a difficult season? How do I approach these matches which, for some, seem without stake? There is always meaning. We are fortunate to play, fans come to see us, people spend money to look at us. Even if our chances of playing after April 12 are thin, it is a question of attitude, daily habits, and what we are preparing for next season. I also think of my inheritance. I don't want to be said that I let go of a season. My son and my wife always come to see me play, they support me, and I don't want to disappoint them. Before each match, I remember why I do this, and I remember when I was younger, I dreamed of having this opportunity. »»
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=avlvcszekwk
