Lakers Edge Past Pelicans for Fifth Consecutive Win
The Los Angeles Lakers continued their impressive run of form, securing a hard-fought 104-99 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. This win marks the fifth consecutive triumph for the Lakers, who now boast a commendable 9-4 record, showcasing their potential dominance early in the season.
At the heart of this crucial victory was a stellar performance by Anthony Davis, who seemed to be in his element against the Pelicans. Davis, who has been a pivotal figure for the Lakers this season, recorded an impressive 31 points and 14 rebounds, a testament to his aggressive play both inside the paint and on the perimeter.
Remarkably, Davis's scoring efficiency was on full display as he made two out of four three-point attempts during the game. This versatility has become increasingly significant for the Lakers, considering Davis's recent shooting form. Over the past five games, Davis has maintained a striking 62.5% success rate from beyond the arc, a considerable improvement from his historical average. Between 2021 and 2024, Davis struggled from the three-point line, shooting only 25%. However, his current form recalls performances from the 2018 to 2020 seasons when he consistently shot above 33% from long range.
Reflecting on his performance, Davis remarked, "It's huge for our team." He elaborated on the tactical advantage of his ability to shoot from distance: "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." Davis’s newfound shooting confidence has created mismatches for opponents, forcing them to make challenging defensive decisions. "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," Davis explained.
Indeed, the strategic impact of Davis’s shooting prowess cannot be understated. With an offensive rating of 122.6 during their ongoing win streak, the Lakers hold the best offensive rating in the league. Such an achievement highlights their efficiency, and Davis’s contributions extend beyond just points on the scoreboard; they embody a microcosm of the Lakers' broader tactical evolution under pressure.
As the Lakers continue to build momentum, bolstered by Davis’s resurgence in form and the team’s overall offensive cohesion, they appear poised to make significant strides this season. The victory over the Pelicans not only consolidates their current standing but also sends a clear message to the league: the Lakers are ready to challenge for top honors, driven by a collective team effort and star performances from players like Anthony Davis.