The Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans have been two of the more intriguing teams in the Western Conference over the past few seasons. With star players, high-octane offenses, and plenty of playoff aspirations, their matchups have consistently provided drama, excitement, and, of course, memorable performances.
In this article, we will break down the key player statistics and performances from a recent Lakers vs. Pelicans game. This matchup saw the two teams battle it out in what was a thrilling contest from start to finish. We will look at the standout players, the key statistics that defined the game, and how each team’s strategy shaped the result.
Game Overview
In a high-stakes game between the Lakers and Pelicans, both teams entered with a sense of urgency. The Lakers, led by LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and newly acquired talent, were looking to solidify their place among the top teams in the West. Meanwhile, the Pelicans, spearheaded by Zion Williamson, Brandon Ingram, and a deep supporting cast, sought to prove they could compete with the league’s elite.
The game itself was a back-and-forth affair, with both teams taking turns holding momentum. In the end, it was the Lakers who pulled away in the final moments, securing a hard-fought victory.
lakers vs new orleans pelicans match player stats
Los Angeles Lakers
1. LeBron James – 30 points, 8 rebounds, 10 assists
As expected, LeBron James once again showcased why he remains one of the league’s premier players. The King turned in a 30-point performance, highlighted by his efficient shooting (11-19 from the field) and playmaking ability (10 assists).
LeBron’s leadership was critical throughout the game, especially when the Lakers needed him to step up in key moments. His ability to score from all areas of the court—whether it be attacking the rim or hitting timely three-pointers—kept the Pelicans’ defense on their heels.
Beyond his offensive contributions, LeBron also pulled down 8 rebounds and dished out 10 assists, illustrating his all-around game. His veteran presence was evident, particularly during crunch time when he hit crucial shots to help the Lakers secure the win.
2. Anthony Davis – 25 points, 12 rebounds, 4 blocks
Anthony Davis was a defensive anchor and an offensive force for the Lakers. With 25 points and 12 rebounds, Davis was a constant presence in the paint. His 4 blocks were a testament to his rim protection, which made it difficult for the Pelicans to score in the interior.
Davis was also a mismatch on offense, using his length and skill to dominate in the post and hit mid-range jumpers. His ability to stretch the floor and protect the rim simultaneously makes him a unique threat on both ends of the court.
3. D’Angelo Russell – 14 points, 5 assists, 3 rebounds
D’Angelo Russell was solid for the Lakers, offering scoring and playmaking in the backcourt. His 14 points came on a mix of jump shots and drives to the basket, while his 5 assists helped keep the offense flowing. Russell also played a key role in helping space the floor, knocking down a couple of timely three-pointers to keep the Pelicans’ defense honest.
4. Rui Hachimura – 16 points, 7 rebounds
Rui Hachimura came off the bench to provide a significant spark for the Lakers. His 16 points and 7 rebounds were key in giving the Lakers some offensive depth beyond LeBron and Davis. Hachimura’s ability to hit mid-range shots and attack the basket made him a valuable contributor, especially during the second half when the Lakers were looking for secondary scoring options.
5. Austin Reaves – 8 points, 4 assists, 2 rebounds
Though Austin Reaves didn’t have the huge statistical output that some of his teammates did, his impact was still felt. Reaves played solid defense and was a secondary ball handler when needed, especially when Russell or LeBron were on the bench. His ability to facilitate the offense and play within the flow of the game helped keep the Lakers balanced.
New Orleans Pelicans
1. Zion Williamson – 29 points, 11 rebounds, 4 assists
Zion Williamson had a standout performance for the Pelicans, showing why he’s considered one of the most dominant forces in the league when healthy. Williamson scored 29 points, using his strength and athleticism to bully his way to the basket. He also contributed 11 rebounds, showing his tenacity on the glass.
While Zion was excellent in transition, finishing with explosive dunks and layups, he also showed an improved mid-range game, hitting a few jumpers to stretch the defense. His offensive versatility made it difficult for the Lakers to slow him down, but they managed to contain him in the final minutes, which proved to be crucial.
2. Brandon Ingram – 24 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists
Brandon Ingram provided a steady scoring presence for the Pelicans. His 24 points came primarily from his smooth mid-range jumper and a couple of three-pointers. Ingram is known for his ability to create his own shot, and he did so efficiently in this game, though he struggled a bit against the Lakers’ defense in the second half.
Ingram’s 5 rebounds and 3 assists showed his all-around game, but he was ultimately unable to lift the Pelicans in the clutch, as his shot-making cooled down when the game was on the line.
3. CJ McCollum – 13 points, 6 assists, 3 rebounds
CJ McCollum was the veteran presence the Pelicans needed in the backcourt. Though he didn’t have an explosive scoring night, his 13 points and 6 assists were key in keeping the offense flowing. McCollum’s ability to hit timely three-pointers and play off the ball allowed the Pelicans to stay competitive.
However, McCollum was not as effective defensively against the Lakers’ more dynamic scorers, and this ultimately hurt the Pelicans as the game wore on.
4. Jonas Valančiūnas – 12 points, 8 rebounds, 2 assists
Jonas Valančiūnas was an anchor in the middle for the Pelicans, providing a strong presence in the post. He contributed 12 points and 8 rebounds, with many of his points coming from putbacks and offensive rebounds. Valančiūnas was also a force on the defensive glass, grabbing key rebounds to keep possessions alive for the Pelicans.
However, his lack of mobility in space and inability to stretch the floor left the Pelicans at a disadvantage in certain matchups, particularly when the Lakers opted for smaller lineups or ran faster-paced offensive sets.
5. Trey Murphy III – 9 points, 3 rebounds
Trey Murphy III provided a scoring spark off the bench for New Orleans, contributing 9 points, including a couple of three-pointers. While Murphy’s shooting was impressive at times, he wasn’t able to provide enough of an impact to turn the tide in favor of the Pelicans.
Team Stats Analysis
The game was closely contested throughout, with the Lakers edging out the Pelicans in several key statistical categories:
- Field Goal Percentage: The Lakers shot 47.6% from the field, while the Pelicans were slightly less efficient at 44.8%. The Lakers’ ability to hit more of their shots, particularly from the three-point line (39% vs. 32%), helped them build a crucial lead in the second half.
- Three-Point Shooting: Both teams shot relatively well from deep, but the Lakers’ 39% shooting from beyond the arc was a major factor in their win. The Pelicans, on the other hand, struggled to hit timely three-pointers, which hurt their ability to keep up with the Lakers’ scoring.
- Rebounds: The Pelicans had a slight edge on the boards (45-43), but the Lakers’ superior rebounding in key moments, especially on the offensive glass, helped them maintain extra possessions.
- Turnovers: The Lakers committed 12 turnovers, while the Pelicans had 10. However, the Lakers were able to capitalize more efficiently off turnovers, scoring 15 points off Pelicans’ mistakes compared to 10 points for New Orleans.
Conclusion
The Los Angeles Lakers’ victory over the New Orleans Pelicans was a well-rounded team effort, led by LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Their combination of scoring, playmaking, and defense was just enough to outlast a talented Pelicans team. While Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram had solid performances, the Pelicans’ inability to execute in the clutch and their struggles with three-point shooting ultimately cost them the game.
The Lakers’ ability to hit timely shots, particularly from deep, and control the glass proved decisive. The Pelicans, despite strong individual performances, couldn’t find the necessary rhythm in the second half, allowing the Lakers to pull away.
This game showcased the high level of talent on both teams, with superstars like LeBron, Davis, Zion, and Ingram all making their mark. However, it also highlighted areas of improvement for both sides, particularly the Pelicans’ need for more consistent scoring and better execution in the final minutes of close games.
As both teams continue their season, this game serves as a reminder of just how competitive the Western Conference is, with the Lakers and Pelicans both fighting to stay in playoff contention.
