Wed Mar 05 05:40:00 UTC 2025: **Lakers Cruise Past Pelicans Behind James’ Milestone and Dončić’s Dominance**
LOS ANGELES – LeBron James reached a historic milestone and Luka Dončić orchestrated a masterful performance as the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the New Orleans Pelicans 136-115 on Tuesday night. James scored his 50,000th career point with a first-quarter three-pointer, finishing the game with 34 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Dončić added 30 points, 15 assists, and eight rebounds in his dominant display.
Zion Williamson led the Pelicans with 37 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome the Lakers’ firepower. The Pelicans, who have now lost seven straight to the Lakers, struggled to contain the dynamic duo, despite a strong effort from Williamson, who played just over 26 minutes before being rested in the fourth quarter. Trey Murphy III added 19 points for New Orleans, and Jordan Hawkins chipped in 17 off the bench. The Lakers’ hot shooting, particularly from beyond the arc (19-of-52), proved to be the difference. Former Pelican Jaxson Hayes contributed 19 points and 10 rebounds for the Lakers.
The victory extended the Lakers’ winning streak to seven games, propelling them to the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference. The Pelicans, meanwhile, ended their road trip with a 2-2 record, splitting games against the Suns and winning against the Jazz. They return home to face the Houston Rockets on Thursday. Pelicans coach Willie Green acknowledged the challenge posed by the Lakers’ two elite playmakers, highlighting their exceptional court vision and passing ability.
First Piper 