Game Recap: Los Angeles Lakers vs. New Orleans Pelicans – Full Player Stats & Analysis

Introduction

The NBA matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the New Orleans Pelicans on November 16, 2024, was a thrilling contest that showcased the talents and strategies of both teams. The Lakers emerged victorious with a final score of 104-99. This article provides a detailed analysis of the game, focusing on individual player performances and key statistics.

Team Performance Overview

Los Angeles Lakers Player Statistics

• Anthony Davis (PF/C)

  • Points: 31
  • Rebounds: 12
  • Assists: 3
  • Field Goal %: 61.9% (13/21)
  • Free Throw %: 83.3% (5/6)

  Analysis: Davis dominated the paint, showcasing his offensive versatility and defensive prowess. His efficient shooting and rebounding were pivotal in securing the Lakers’ victory.

• LeBron James (SF)

  • Points: 21
  • Rebounds: 7
  • Assists: 5
  • Field Goal %: 50.0% (8/16)
  • 3-Point %: 33.3% (2/6)

  Analysis: James provided leadership and stability, contributing significantly on both ends of the court. His playmaking abilities facilitated the Lakers’ offensive flow.

• D’Angelo Russell (PG)

  • Points: 15
  • Rebounds: 3
  • Assists: 6
  • Field Goal %: 42.9% (6/14)
  • 3-Point %: 40.0% (2/5)

  Analysis: Russell’s perimeter shooting and ball distribution added depth to the Lakers’ offense, effectively spacing the floor and creating opportunities.

• Austin Reaves (SG)

  • Points: 12
  • Rebounds: 4
  • Assists: 2
  • Field Goal %: 55.6% (5/9)
  • 3-Point %: 50.0% (2/4)

  Analysis: Reaves’ energy and efficiency off the bench provided a crucial spark, contributing timely baskets and defensive stops.

• Rui Hachimura (PF)

  • Points: 8
  • Rebounds: 5
  • Assists: 1
  • Field Goal %: 44.4% (4/9)
  • 3-Point %: 0.0% (0/2)

  Analysis: Hachimura’s physicality and mid-range shooting added a valuable dimension to the Lakers’ frontcourt.

New Orleans Pelicans Player Statistics

• Brandon Ingram (SF)

  • Points: 32
  • Rebounds: 6
  • Assists: 4
  • Field Goal %: 52.0% (13/25)
  • 3-Point %: 40.0% (2/5)

  Analysis: Ingram’s scoring ability kept the Pelicans competitive, consistently finding ways to penetrate the Lakers’ defense.

• CJ McCollum (SG)

  • Points: 18
  • Rebounds: 3
  • Assists: 5
  • Field Goal %: 41.2% (7/17)
  • 3-Point %: 36.4% (4/11)

  Analysis: McCollum’s shooting and veteran presence provided stability, though his efficiency was hindered by the Lakers’ defensive schemes.

• Jonas Valančiūnas (C)

  • Points: 14
  • Rebounds: 10
  • Assists: 2
  • Field Goal %: 53.8% (7/13)
  • Free Throw %: 0.0% (0/2)

  Analysis: Valančiūnas controlled the boards and offered a strong interior presence, though his impact was limited by foul trouble.

• Trey Murphy III (SF)

  • Points: 10
  • Rebounds: 4
  • Assists: 1
  • Field Goal %: 45.5% (5/11)
  • 3-Point %: 25.0% (1/4)

  Analysis: Murphy’s athleticism and defensive efforts were notable, but his shooting inconsistency affected the Pelicans’ spacing.

• José Alvarado (PG)

  • Points: 5
  • Rebounds: 2
  • Assists: 7
  • Field Goal %: 33.3% (2/6)
  • 3-Point %: 20.0% (1/5)

  Analysis: Alvarado’s playmaking facilitated the offense, though his shooting struggles limited his scoring contributions.

Key Matchup: Anthony Davis vs. Jonas Valančiūnas

The battle in the paint between Davis and Valančiūnas was a focal point. Davis’ agility and scoring versatility gave him the edge, while Valančiūnas’ rebounding and physicality challenged the Lakers’ interior defense.

Bench Contributions

• Los Angeles Lakers:

  • Austin Reaves: 12 points, 4 rebounds
  • Rui Hachimura: 8 points, 5 rebounds

  Analysis: The Lakers’ bench provided essential support, with Reaves and Hachimura delivering impactful minutes that sustained the team’s momentum.

• New Orleans Pelicans:

  • Larry Nance Jr.: 6 points, 7 rebounds
  • Dyson Daniels: 4 points, 3 assists

  Analysis: The Pelicans’ reserves offered energy and defensive intensity, but their limited scoring output was a factor in the game’s outcome.

Team Strategies and Adjustments

Los Angeles Lakers:

• Offensive Strategy: The Lakers focused on an inside-out approach, utilizing Anthony Davis in the post while LeBron James orchestrated plays from the perimeter. Their ability to spread the floor with shooters like D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves created more driving lanes.
• Defensive Adjustments: The Lakers played aggressive perimeter defense, closing out on shooters quickly to limit three-point attempts. Davis’ shot-blocking presence deterred easy buckets in the paint.

New Orleans Pelicans:

• Offensive Strategy: The Pelicans relied on Brandon Ingram’s shot-creation ability, often running isolation sets to exploit mismatches. They also incorporated pick-and-roll plays with Jonas Valančiūnas to generate high-percentage shots.
• Defensive Adjustments: New Orleans attempted to double-team Davis in the post, but this left Lakers’ shooters open on the perimeter. They also tried to disrupt LeBron James’ playmaking by applying pressure early in possessions.

Crucial Moments in the Game

First Half Highlights

• Q1: The Lakers got off to a strong start, fueled by Davis’ dominant post-play and Russell’s perimeter shooting. The Pelicans countered with quick transition plays led by CJ McCollum.
• Q2: New Orleans tightened its defense, forcing several Lakers’ turnovers. Ingram heated up, scoring 10 points in the quarter and cutting the Lakers’ lead to just three points at halftime.

Second Half Highlights

• Q3: The Lakers adjusted by increasing ball movement, leading to open three-point shots for Reaves and Russell. The Pelicans struggled from deep, making only 2-of-9 three-pointers in this quarter.
• Q4: With the game tied at 97-97 with two minutes left, LeBron James took over, hitting a crucial three-pointer followed by a fast-break layup. Davis sealed the game with a clutch block on Ingram’s potential game-tying shot.

Key Takeaways from the Match

For the Lakers:

✅ Anthony Davis’ Dominance: His two-way impact was crucial in securing the win.
✅ Balanced Scoring Attack: Five players scored in double figures, showcasing a well-rounded offensive effort.
✅ Defensive Execution: They held the Pelicans to under 35% shooting from three-point range.

For the Pelicans:

❌ Inconsistent Shooting: Struggled from deep, which hurt their ability to keep pace with the Lakers.
❌ Limited Bench Production: Only 15 points from the bench compared to 24 from the Lakers’ reserves.
❌ Missed Free Throws: Left crucial points at the line, shooting just 75% from free throws.

Final Score and Summary

The Los Angeles Lakers secured a 104-99 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, thanks to dominant performances from Anthony Davis (31 points, 12 rebounds) and LeBron James (21 points, 7 rebounds, 5 assists). The Pelicans, despite a strong effort from Brandon Ingram (32 points), struggled with perimeter shooting and turnovers in crucial moments.

FAQs

1. Who was the top scorer in the Lakers vs. Pelicans match?

Brandon Ingram led all scorers with 32 points, while Anthony Davis was the top scorer for the Lakers with 31 points.

2. What were the Lakers’ key strengths in this match?

The Lakers dominated the paint with Anthony Davis, executed strong perimeter defense, and had efficient ball movement leading to high-percentage shots.

3. Why did the Pelicans struggle in the second half?

Their three-point shooting percentage dropped, and they committed costly turnovers, allowing the Lakers to capitalize on fast-break opportunities.

4. How did LeBron James impact the game?

LeBron James played a vital role in clutch moments, hitting a crucial three-pointer and leading the Lakers’ offense with 21 points and 5 assists.

5. What is next for both teams?

The Lakers look to build on this win as they face the Golden State Warriors next, while the Pelicans aim to bounce back against the Phoenix Suns.

Conclusion

The Lakers vs. New Orleans Pelicans match player stats show a game full of intense moments, standout performances, and key strategic adjustments. While the Pelicans fought hard, the Lakers’ strong defense, efficient shooting, and clutch performances secured the victory. As both teams prepare for their upcoming games, fans can expect more thrilling basketball action ahead.