Lakers Edge Past Pelicans in Hard-Fought Victory
The Los Angeles Lakers continued their upward trajectory with a thrilling 104-99 win over the New Orleans Pelicans, a result that cemented their fifth consecutive victory. Buoyed by the formidable presence of Anthony Davis, the Lakers have now elevated their record to an impressive 9-4, underscoring their status as one of the most in-form teams in the league.
Davis was at his scintillating best, putting on a stellar show that saw him score 31 points while pulling down 14 rebounds. This performance marks Davis’s eighth game this season with a 30-plus points tally, reinforcing his position as a crucial lynchpin in the Lakers' setup. "It's huge for our team," Davis remarked, modestly underplaying his contributions on a night where his athletic prowess was on full display.
His shooting from beyond the arc was particularly noteworthy. Davis sank two out of his four three-point attempts against the Pelicans, maintaining a remarkable 62.5% success rate over his last five games. This resurgence in three-point efficiency is a promising return to form for a player who historically struggled with his perimeter shooting, as evidenced by a three-year period from 2021 to 2024 during which he shot just 25% from deep. Between 2018 and 2020, however, Davis consistently shot over 33%, suggesting that his current uptick might be a return to his earlier standards.
"A lot of guys will be in the paint and try to help, especially big men. I fell victim to it a couple times," Davis reflected on the defensive tactics he has faced, a testament to how opposing teams have been unable to contain his unpredictable style. "But it's just instinctual for a big to be in the paint, especially when one of the guards has the ball and they're driving or in a post-up." His ability to step out and confidently make three-point shots has added a new dimension to his game, putting additional pressure on defenses to constantly adapt.
This versatility was key against New Orleans. Davis explained, "So for me to be able to step out and make a couple 3s definitely put us over the hump and put the defense in a bind, especially the big men. They're either gonna leave me open or have [LeBron James], [Austin Reaves], [Rui Hachimura], whoever is in the post or has the ball, has single coverage and go to work." Such strategic maneuvering has been pivotal during their recent winning streak.
Central to the Lakers' success has been their league-leading offensive rating during this streak, currently standing at a dominant 122.6. This formidable offensive output is a testament not just to Davis’s contributions but to a cohesive team dynamic that has clicked precisely at the right moment. The inclusion of other key players like LeBron James and emerging talents such as Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura has provided a balanced setup that keeps opponents guessing.
In conclusion, the Lakers' victory over the Pelicans represents more than just another win to their record. It illustrates the strides they have made this season and emphasizes the pivotal role Anthony Davis plays in their quest for success. As the Lakers continue to build momentum, the basketball world will be watching to see if this form can be sustained in the long-term chase for glory.