Hoops Habit
Fansided

New Orleans Pelicans: Ryan Anderson Makes Statement In Season Debut

By Emily Gruver

facebooktwitterreddit

After missing nine regular season games to start the season with a broken toe in his right foot, Ryan Anderson made his return Saturday night and definitely made a statement.

Ryan Anderson makes statement in season opener vs. the Sixers

(NBA.com)

Anderson came off the bench against the Philadelphia 76ers Saturday night, playing 27 minutes. He finished with 26 points on 10-of-16 shooting from the field and 6-of-10 shooting beyond the 3-point line. The Pelicans went on to demolish the Sixers 135-98.

"Anderson said, “We were just moving the ball and played with a lot of energy. When we play at that kind of tempo and that kind of pace, naturally we just get open shots. We were just getting open shots. We were just moving the ball. The big difference was we weren’t forcing shots, we were moving it to the open man and we shot great as a team because of that.”(Quotes via nola.com)Tyreke Evans said, “He opened it up. It was much different. I felt better, much quicker. I’m just excited about the season now. We’re healthy. We’re like a team. But this is only one game. We have to keep rolling for the rest of the season.”(Quotes via nola.com)"

Monty Williams said,

"“Ryan’s a unique player. He can space the floor and knock down shots, but he can also take it to the basket and create for himself. I mess with him a lot, but he’s a willing passer. Defensively, he’s like something we haven’t had. We can go to the bench and have a guy who can space the floor and fight for rebounds. He’s not even in shape. Once he gets in better shape, he’s going to get a lot better.”(Quotes via nola.com)Anderson also said, “I told coach, ‘Let me go, and if I’m not feeling it or if I’m feeling pretty gassed or something I’ll let you know.’ But I felt great.”(Quotes via espn.com)"

Anderson got much praise after the game and he definitely deserved it. Not only was he able to knock down 3s, but he was also aggressive from the field, varying his shot selection.

[slider_pro id=”19″]