Whether you’re rooting for the tank or not, the New Orleans Pelicans have been playing some of their best basketball of the season, winning four of their last five games. Zion Williamson is dominating opponents, Trey Murphy III continues to play well as the team’s second star, and the addition of Kelly Olynyk has been a major boost. Despite their recent success, the Pelicans still have one of the NBA’s worst road marks, with a dismal 6-25 record away from Smoothie King Center. Tonight, they take on a Los Angeles Lakers squad that has won six straight and is pushing for the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference.
Luka Dončić Transforming the Lakers
The Lakers have been dominant since acquiring Luka Dončić in a midseason blockbuster trade. Teaming up with LeBron James, Dončić has given Los Angeles another elite playmaker, and the results have been immediate. Since the trade, the Lakers are 11-2 and have climbed to near the top of the standings in the West. Their defensive intensity has picked up as well with L.A. ranking first in defensive rating (107.4) during that stretch. As the Lakers try to solidify their place near the top of the standings, a win against New Orleans would be another step in that direction.
Can Zion Carry the Pelicans?
If New Orleans hopes to beat L.A., they’ll need another dominant performance from Zion Williamson. The 24-year-old forward has done it all since the All-Star break, averaging 22.8 points, 7.8 rebounds, 6.5 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.0 blocks over his last four games—all Pelicans victories. He’s also shooting nearly 60 percent from the floor. The Pelicans have provided plenty of help for Zion lately, with six other players averaging double figures in scoring since the break. If New Orleans can knock down threes and control the glass, they might have a chance to steal a win.
Lakers’ Depth and Experience a Challenge
The Lakers’ star power extends beyond Dončić and James. Austin Reaves, who missed the last game with a calf strain, would give Los Angeles extra scoring punch if he’s available. James, despite being in his 22nd season, continues to dictate games with his playmaking and rebounding, averaging 24.8 points per game. Meanwhile, Dončić has historically torched the Pelicans, averaging 28.4 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game against them throughout his career. If he plays—he’s currently listed as questionable with a knee contusion—the Pels will have to do whatever they can to pick up the pace against a Lakers team that wants to control the tempo.
History and Defense Make This a Tough Task
The Pelicans haven’t beaten the Lakers on the road in almost two years, and their defensive struggles this season don’t inspire much confidence. Over their last ten games, New Orleans has allowed 118.4 points per contest, a number that won’t hold up against an elite offensive team like the Lakers. Los Angeles is 23-7 at home, making this one of the most difficult places for the Pelicans to earn a road win. If New Orleans doesn’t bring its best defensive effort, Dončić and James could take over early and put this game out of reach.
A Prove-It Game for the Pelicans
Tuesday night’s showdown is a chance for the Pelicans to prove they can hang with one of the NBA’s top teams. With a brutal road record and a history of struggling in Los Angeles, this will be a serious test. Though the Pelicans aren’t in contention for the playoffs, a win would go a long way toward validating the team’s new direction. On the other hand…a loss would keep the Pelicans within shouting distance of the NBA’s worst record.
Most Recent Starting Lineups
| Los Angeles Lakers | New Orleans Pelicans |
| G – Gabe Vincent | G – CJ McCollum |
| G – Luka Doncic | G – Trey Murphy |
| F – LeBron James | F – Zion Williamson |
| F – Dorian Finney-Smith | F – Kelly Olynyk |
| C – Jaxson Hayes | C – Yves Missi |
Injuries
Los Angeles Lakers: Luka Doncic (knee), LeBron James (foot), and Austin Reaves (calf) are QUESTIONABLE. Jordan Goodwin (ankle), Rui Hachimura (knee), and Maxi Kleber (foot) are OUT.
New Orleans Pelicans: Brandon Boston (left ankle sprain) is QUESTIONABLE. Herb Jones (right shoulder torn rotator cuff), and Dejounte Murray (right Achilles rupture) are OUT.
Who: New Orleans Pelicans (17-44) vs Los Angeles Lakers (38-21)
Season Series:
- Nov. 16: Lakers def. Pelicans, 104-99
- Mar. 4: Pelicans at Lakers
- Apr. 4: Pelicans at Lakers
Series History: The New Orleans Pelicans are 28-48 all-time against Los Angeles Lakers and have lost four in a row.
Where: Crypto.com Arena
When: Mar. 4, 9:30 PM CST
Where to watch: Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network
Where to listen: WWL Radio 870 AM/105.3 FM
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