The New Orleans Hornets (11-25) may not have the record to show it, but they're currently one of the hottest teams in the league after winning their fourth straight game Friday night.

Things didn't look good early for the fleur-de-bees, who were outscored 29-14 in the first quarter by the Minnesota Timberwolves (16-17). After the early hick-up, New Orleans leaned on their defense to win big 104-92.

Hornets point guard Greivis Vasquez (pictured) got two early fouls then watched the majority of the first half from the bench. The second half was a different story for Vasquez. He got hot late, which he's made a habit of during the current winning streak. Friday night he finished with a team-high 18 points and 13 assists.

Vasquez has had a double-double in five of the past six games, including the past three. He continues to be a strong contender for the NBA's Most Improved Player award.

Al-Farouq Aminu chipped in a double-double as well, scoring 12 points and grabbing 13 rebounds. Eric Gordon added 16 while Anthony Davis scored 9.

Jason Smith (15 points), Ryan Anderson (14 points), and Roger Mason Jr. (10 points) led a tremendous effort from the Hornets bench. New Orleans' reserves outscored Minnesota's bench 45-14. Every player in uniform for the Hornets played.

"I threw a few lineups out in the first half just to try to get some energy. This is what young teams go through, the day in and day out grind of the NBA," head coach Monty Williams said. "It's hard to get your mental focus up and a lot of times young guys just can't do it."

New Orleans now embarks on an East Coast road trip. Next up, a Sunday morning matchup at Madison Square Garden with the New York Knicks. Tip-off is set for 11:00.

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