LeBron James had a remarkable 13 assists at halftime, contributing to a solid triple-double of 28 points, 17 assists, and 11 rebounds, per the NBA Website. As a result, the Lakers enjoyed a 77-99 lead into the fourth quarter, mitigating the impact of Anthony Davis’ early exit on their playoff hopes.
After winning 124-108, reporters questioned LeBron James about his effect on the game and how he chooses when to show aggression. “I just want to win. I’ve got to do it all. I’m a Swiss army knife. I’ve got to do it all on the floor,” James replied after the game.
Anthony Davis scored 30 points and grabbed 11 rebounds against the team that picked him first overall in the 2012 NBA draft, paving the way for a rematch on Tuesday night in the same venue during conference play-in action.
Pelicans to Face LeBron James Led Lakers Again in the Play-In Tournament
LeBron James had his sixth triple-double of the year, demonstrating his ability to create plays and help the Lakers dominate in the paint. The Lakers outscored New Orleans 68-42.
The two-time NBA All-Star Zion Williamson could only concede that the Pelicans lacked the mental fortitude to restrict the highest-scoring player in league history. For their home supporters, the Pelicans could not provide any memorable moments.
There were no solid defensive stops on back-to-back plays, and the expected barrage of 3-pointers that would have built momentum never happened. Against the undermanned Minnesota Timberwolves, New Orleans had the chance to use the week to recover and plan. They now have to make a quick turnaround, though.
Depending on how the Play-In Tournament plays out in the first round, they must go through LeBron James and maybe Steph Curry in the postseason. They were not as successful when they returned to the Smoothie King Center, even with Zion Williamson’s spectacular defensive play recently.
