Ryan Anderson Sets Pelicans Record with 30 Points Before Halftime

New Orleans Pelicans forward Ryan Anderson set a new franchise record by scoring 30 points before halftime in Thursday's 114-105 win over the Sacramento Kings, per ESPN Stats & Info.

Typically a key reserve, Anderson started in place of superstar forward Anthony Davis, who was held out of the contest due to a concussion that he suffered in Monday's loss to the Houston Rockets.

Anderson quickly seized the opportunity, converting 11 of his 17 field-goal attempts, four of his eight three-point attempts and all four of his free throws in the first half, helping the Pelicans take a 63-53 lead into the break.

Though far less productive in the second half, he still matched his career-high mark of 36 points, complemented by nine rebounds, four assists and only one turnover in a team-high 40 minutes.

Per Basketball-Reference.com's play index, Anderson previously put up 36 points in a December 2013 win over the Chicago Bulls, taking advantage of both Davis' absence and a trio of overtime periods. He needed only one of those circumstances Thursday night, though it certainly helped to face a fast-paced Sacramento team that leads the NBA in pace (102.0) and ranks 21st in defensive efficiency (105.1).

With Davis potentially missing more time, Anderson could have another shot at a big game when the Pelicans face the Brooklyn Nets on Saturday.