‘NCIS: New Orleans’ episode 11 review: ‘Baitfish’ sets stage for things to come

Who knew that Tuesday night would be such a big one for the entire “NCIS” franchise? Immediately following what we personally believe to be the strongest episode of the flagship show this season, “NCIS: New Orleans” returned with what may be its best episode of the series in “Baitfish.”

The first reason that this hour delivered came via the first few minutes, when an explosion erupted at a gala, and in turn, had the potential change the relationship between Pride and Laurel forever. One of themes that played out through this story was what Pride could really do to protect not just his family, but also the entire city. You can be a hero, but is that really enough to change things? His resourcefulness proved to once again be an advantage, but it could not stop the chain of events tonight that were already in motion.

Just like the “NCIS” episode, “New Orleans” tonight also ended with a pretty massive cliffhanger: The “deceased” in Paul Janks as not actually dead at all; the body switch-up was in many ways the perfect distraction. The episode ended away from the team with a bundle of cash, and a great foundation for a difficult case that Pride will have to tackle before the season is over, most likely.

There was an enigmatic quality to tonight’s “NCIS: New Orleans,” and we enjoy the changes over time that this show has made from the other offshoots. It is more atmospheric, more colorful, and certainly more musical. Also, it’s much more in the field. This is a show that has found its identity, and Scott Bakula anchors it well.

While we never know whether or not the mythology in a procedural will continue week to week, we at least applaud the team for “Baitfish.” After all, we’re more invested in the rest of the season than we have been to date. Grade: A-.

What was your take on this particular episode? Let us know right now in the comments.