LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers showcased an offensive masterclass in a commanding 139-122 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday night, buoyed by an 87-point first half. D’Angelo Russell led the scoring with 30 points, including six 3-pointers, while Austin Reaves contributed 27 points in a game that marked the Lakers’ fourth win in their last five outings.
LeBron James had a standout performance with 21 points and 14 assists, demonstrating his playmaking prowess. Rui Hachimura and Anthony Davis also played pivotal roles, scoring 21 and 20 points, respectively, with Hachimura’s first-half contribution being particularly notable.
The Lakers, playing on the second night of a back-to-back set, surged ahead with a 51-point second quarter, their most prolific half of the season and tying a franchise record. The team’s remarkable shooting accuracy and dynamic play left the Pelicans struggling to keep pace, despite Zion Williamson’s 30-point effort and Brandon Ingram’s 22 points.
The Pelicans, who had been on a four-game winning streak, found themselves unable to counter the Lakers’ onslaught, with coach Willie Green pointing to a lack of physical defensive presence as a key factor in their defeat.
Russell’s return from a one-game injury absence due to left knee soreness was instrumental, with his recent performances being a crucial factor in the Lakers’ decision not to make moves at the trade deadline. The Lakers, still eyeing reinforcements on the buyout market, had Spencer Dinwiddie, a potential addition, watching the game from the stands alongside Lakers general manager Rob Pelinka.
The Pelicans faced their own challenges, with Jonas Valanciunas playing through a bruised calf and contributing 10 points and 10 rebounds. Despite an impressive 39-point opening period from New Orleans, the Lakers’ record-tying second quarter shifted the momentum decisively in their favor.
As the Lakers look forward to hosting the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday, they’ll aim to build on this performance and solidify their position in the Western Conference standings. The Pelicans, meanwhile, will seek to bounce back against the Portland Trail Blazers on Saturday, hoping to regain their winning form.
