In a fiercely contested matchup, the Los Angeles Lakers emerged victorious over the New Orleans Pelicans with a final score of 104-99. This hard-fought win not only extended the Lakers' winning streak to five games but also further solidified their position as a formidable force in the league with a commendable 9-4 record.
Dominant Davis
At the heart of the Lakers' triumph was Anthony Davis, who delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 31 points and securing 14 rebounds. Davis's display came as no surprise, given his recent exploits on the court. He has now scored at least 30 points in eight games this season, showcasing his consistent offensive prowess.
One of the standout aspects of Davis's game against the Pelicans was his performance from beyond the arc. He successfully made two of his four three-point attempts, and this proficiency has been a trend for the star forward. Over the last five games, Davis has maintained an impressive 62.5% success rate on three-point shots, a remarkable improvement from his historic 25% average between 2021 and 2024. Reflecting on his ability to stretch defenses, Davis remarked, "It's huge for our team."
Strategic Impact
Davis's newfound accuracy from deep has added a significant layer to the Lakers' offensive strategy. "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," he explained. His ability to consistently hit from long range forces opposing defenses to make tough choices.
"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," Davis continued. This strategic flexibility, where defenses must decide whether to guard him on the perimeter or focus on his teammates like LeBron James and Austin Reaves, has proven valuable. "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."
Team Dynamics
The Lakers' current winning run owes much not just to individual brilliance but also to a collective team effort. The win against the Pelicans saw the Lakers operating with the best offensive rating in the league during this streak, rated at a stellar 122.6. This offensive efficiency underscores a well-oiled machine wherein each component, led by Davis and his multifaceted impact, is working in harmony.
Davis's ability to adapt and elevate his game significantly complements the Lakers' offensive scheme. His shooting resurgence not only elevates his contributions but also opens up opportunities for his teammates. As defenses adjust to guard Davis at the perimeter, it allows others like LeBron James to exploit single coverage situations, ensuring a varied and unpredictable offense.
Historical Context
It is noteworthy that Anthony Davis previously shot at least 33% from three-point range during the 2018-2020 seasons. However, his decline to 25% in the subsequent years highlighted challenges. His current resurgence is a testament to his adaptability and dedication to refining his game.
The Lakers' victory over the Pelicans stands as a testament to their potent blend of both star power and strategic acumen. As they continue this winning momentum, the team and its fans will undoubtedly be optimistic about what lies ahead, buoyed by the continued excellence of players like Anthony Davis.