Pelicans 92 - 89 Bucks
Final
  for this game

Hornets shoot for rare winning streak in Milwaukee

Feb 15, 2012 - 3:39 PM (Sports Network) - It's been a long time since the New Orleans Hornets have been able to string back-to-back wins together. Tonight, they get a chance to do just that when they visit the Milwaukee Bucks in the first of a six-game stretch away from home.

New Orleans stopped an eight-game losing streak on Monday, as Chris Kaman had 27 points and 13 rebounds and the Hornets overcame a late Utah rally to down the Jazz, 86-80.

Gustavo Ayon netted 13 points to go with nine rebounds and three blocks while Greivis Vasquez added 12 points and 10 assists for the Hornets, who are a mere 5-23 this season.

"They dug in and we made some bone head plays, including myself, but it came down to the end and we got our stops, made our free throws, and got a W," Kaman said.

The Hornets, who haven't won consecutive games since beginning the season with two straight wins, continue to play without guard Eric Gordon, who underwent arthroscopic knee surgery on Tuesday "to clean up his right knee" and will miss the next six weeks.

Gordon, the centerpiece in the Chris Paul to Los Angeles deal, first injured his knee during the season opener against Phoenix and experienced swelling in the knee upon his return against Philadelphia on January 4. Doctors initially recommended treatment and rest, but eventually decided surgery was the best option.

"We had hoped with rest and rehab, Eric's knee would have healed," Hornets general manager Dell Demps said in a statement on Monday to announce the surgery. "Eric is eager to return to the court and we are confident Hornet fans will get to see him soon."

After tonight, the Hornets' trip will take them to New York, Oklahoma City, Indiana, Cleveland and Chicago. They have lost six straight on the road and are 2-9 away from home this season.

Milwaukee, meanwhile, lost its second straight game on Monday, falling to the Miami Heat, 114-96.

Carlos Delfino had 24 points to lead the Bucks, who are 2-5 since their last win over Miami. They trailed by as many as 24 points and fell to 0-2 on a three-game homestand.

"We hung in there the first quarter and did some nice things," said Bucks coach Scott Skiles. "We're an average defensive team, and we can't afford to be."

Milwaukee's struggles could continue tonight, as the Hornets have won 10 of 11 and 11 of the last 13 meetings. 005.






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