Pelicans continue adjusting without Cousins vs. Lakers

Just when their season seemed to be spiraling downward, the New Orleans Pelicans have begun to figure out life after DeMarcus Cousins. Wednesday night's post-Mardi Gras home game against the Los Angeles Lakers will be a test of their newfound confidence. The Pelicans (30-26), clinging to half-game lead over the L.A. Clippers for the eighth and final playoff spot in the Western Conference, are coming off back-to-back road victories over the Brooklyn Nets and the Detroit Pistons, giving them a 3-5 record since Cousins was lost for the season Jan. 26 with a torn left Achilles tendon.