Lakers Edge Pelicans for Fifth Straight Win
In a hard-fought contest that showcased both resilience and skill, the Los Angeles Lakers emerged victorious over the New Orleans Pelicans, securing a 104-99 win. This victory adds another notch to the Lakers' winning streak, marking their fifth consecutive triumph and boosting their overall record to 9-4.
The game was highlighted by a stellar performance from Anthony Davis, who dominated the floor with 31 points and 14 rebounds. Davis has proven to be a significant asset for the Lakers, consistently delivering high-scoring games. In fact, Davis has scored at least 30 points in eight games this season, solidifying his role as a crucial offensive player for the team.
Beyond his scoring prowess, Davis demonstrated his versatility on the court, hitting two of four three-point attempts during the game against the Pelicans. This performance continues his streak of games with multiple three-pointers, now at five consecutive outings. For Davis, this adaptability adds a dangerous edge to his game, presenting headaches for opposing defenses.
Reflecting on his contribution from beyond the arc, Davis remarked, "It's huge for our team." He elaborated on how his ability to shoot from distance compels defenses to make tough choices, saying, "A lot of guys will be in the paint and try to help, especially big men. I fell victim to it a couple times. 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."
For the Pelicans, who struggled to adapt defensively, Davis's long-range shooting made the difference. "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, in single coverage and go to work," Davis added, highlighting the strategic advantage his shooting grants the Lakers.
While Davis's recent success from three-point range has been remarkable, his historical shooting tells a different story. Between 2021 and 2024, Davis had a modest 25% success rate from three-point land. This makes his current surge, with a 62.5% success rate over his past five games, all the more noteworthy. Prior to this period, between 2018 and 2020, Davis was more consistent, shooting at least 33% from the three-point line each season, underpinning his potential as a proficient long-range threat.
The Lakers, currently boasting the best offensive rating in the league during their winning streak at 122.6, have found a rhythm that echoes their best performances of past seasons. Their offensive prowess has been a key factor in their recent victories, and as they continue to build momentum, Davis's evolving game will undoubtedly play a vital role in their ongoing success.
As the Lakers navigate the challenges of the season, maintaining this level of performance will be essential for sustained success. Leveraging their offensive strengths, particularly through strategic plays like Davis's perimeter shooting, might hold the key to overcoming tougher opponents in the long run. The win over the Pelicans is not just another game added to the win column, but a statement of intent from a team looking to reassert itself at the top echelons of the league.