In case voters had forgotten over the past few weeks some of the statistics and accomplishments Anthony Davis achieved during the 2015-16 NBA season, his team provided a friendly reminder Monday. The New Orleans Pelicans sent NBA awards voters a package today that consisted of three separate pieces, most notably a sheet that lists the 23-year-old’s most impressive numbers from this season (such as that Davis is the only player ranked in the top 10 in scoring, rebounding and blocks average.
The mailing also included two staples from the city of New Orleans: Mardi Gras beads in the Pelicans’ team colors of red, blue and gold; as well as king cake from locally-based Rouses. Davis averaged 24.3 points, 10.3 rebounds, 2.0 blocks and 1.3 steals.
Other notes from pregame at the Smoothie King Center:
Alvin Gentry addressed the tragic death of former Saints player Will Smith during his pregame meeting with reporters. Watch Gentry discuss Smith …
Alexis Ajinca (shoulder) will miss Monday’s game, making it 10 players who are listed as out for New Orleans, a staggering number. As a result, the Pelicans will only have eight players available. New Orleans had started the same five players for three consecutive games, but with Ajinca sidelined, Luke Babbitt will move from the reserves to starting at forward. Tonight will represent the 41st different first string this season for New Orleans (30-50). …
Joining Babbitt in the starting lineup will be Toney Douglas, James Ennis, Dante Cunningham and Omer Asik.