Lakers Extend Winning Streak with Victory Over Pelicans
The Los Angeles Lakers continued their impressive form by securing their fifth consecutive win, this time overcoming the New Orleans Pelicans with a 104-99 triumph. This victory further cements the Lakers as a formidable force this season, improving their record to 9-4.
Central to the Lakers’ success was a stellar performance from Anthony Davis, who demonstrated his dominance on both ends of the floor. Davis, who has been pivotal in the Lakers' recent winning streak, delivered a resounding performance with 31 points and 14 rebounds. His contribution was crucial in breaking down the Pelicans' defense, especially with his ability to connect from beyond the arc. Davis made two of his four attempts from the three-point line, marking the fifth consecutive game he has hit multiple threes. Over the past five contests, his success rate from deep is at an impressive 62.5%.
Reflecting on his performance, Davis remarked, "It's huge for our team." His ability to shoot from long distance adds a new dimension to the Lakers' offense, making them even harder to defend. "A lot of guys will be in the paint and try to help, especially big men," Davis observed. "I fell victim to it a couple of 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."
His shooting prowess creates a dilemma for opponents. As Davis noted, "For me to be able to step out and make a couple of 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."
This strategic versatility is not entirely new for Davis, who had shown similar shooting efficiency in previous seasons. Between 2018 and 2020, he maintained at least a 33% shooting accuracy from the three-point range every season. However, a dip followed from 2021 to 2024, with his shooting percentage from beyond the arc falling to 25%. His recent resurgence is a testament to his adaptability and skill development.
The Lakers' current winning streak is also reflected in their league-best offensive rating, registering an impressive 122.6 during this period. This offensive dominance, fueled by Davis's all-around game and the support of key teammates like LeBron James, suggests the Lakers are in a strong position to keep their momentum going.
The win over the Pelicans is another step in a promising season for the Lakers, and if their current form is anything to go by, it sets an optimistic tone for the matches ahead. With Davis at the helm, blending his defensive tenacity with newfound shooting range, the Lakers are revealing themselves as a team that not only competes but thrives under pressure.