Lakers Secure 8th seed as They Continue Dominance over Pelicans

For the last game of the regular season, the Lakers were in New Orleans to take on the Pelicans in an absolute must-win game. A win would put the Lakers in the 8th seed and avoid the double play-in. 

The Lakers seem to have the Pelicans’ number and it showed early. LeBron James had 8 first quarter assists leading the charge in a ruckus first quarter. The Lakers did an excellent job of dictating the tempo and controlling the paint. 

The Lakers were able to keep their momentum rolling through the end of the first half as they started 6/8 from the field in the second quarter. What made it more impressive is that Anthony Davis was off the floor while they built up their 13-point lead.

After A.D. was inserted, they continued their dominance and went on a 7-0 run to boost their lead up to 20. LeBron also reached a career high in assists with 13 in the first half.

A season high 50 points in paint gave the Lakers a 17-point lead headed into the break.

There was a focus in intensity on both ends of the floor and it showed as the Lakers were able to force tough shots and nullified Zion Williamson’s size inside.

The Lakers were able to go on another 15-2 run to start the third quarter, really setting the tone for the rest of the game. They ballooned their biggest lead to 32 midway through the quarter, which was their biggest lead of the afternoon.

With the brow in foul trouble, the Pelicans were able to go on a little run and cut the lead to 22. The Pelicans remained persistent to start the fourth quarter, and with LeBron on the bench, New Orleans was able to get the lead under 20 with 10 minutes remaining in the contest.

Of course, LeBron was inserted back in the game, and they regained control. He finished with a hefty 28 points, 11 rebounds and 17 assists. He was the conductor for the Lakers 124-108 win, locking his team into the 8th seed.

There was a scary moment in the game as Anthony Davis headed to the Locker-room early with a non-contact injury holding his lower back. There is no real concern as they have their monumental play-in game on Tuesday, so it is expected he will be in the Lineup.

Darvin Ham was asked about Davis’ injury and responded. “It was just a spasm, nothing major.” Ham also added they are “Extremely optimistic”, that he will play Tuesday.

Davis also spoke after the game regarding the injury that forced him off the court late in the fourth quarter. “I feel good, Larry gave me a little shove in the back…it just locked up, nothing concerning.” Davis also reiterated the importance of being available for their next game.

With their Sunday win, they will stay in New Orleans for a rematch in their 7-8 seed play-in game. If this game was any indication on how things will go on Tuesday, they will surely secure the 7th seed and potentially face the Denver Nuggets who currently own the 2nd seed. 

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