Lakers collapse in loss to Pelicans.
NEW ORLEANS — The Lakers fell apart in the second half of Saturday’s collapse against the Pelicans, falling 131–126, despite leading for the majority of the contest, putting their season record to 25–29.
With a high-energy start to the game, the Lakers were in control in the first half before collapsing at the wrong time and getting outscored 70–54 in the second half.
“The third’s what killed us (tonight),” said LeBron James.
LeBron James finished second on the team with 27 points, making him 36 points away from Kareem Abdul-Jabbar’s all-time points record. Despite notching 9 rebounds and 6 assists in his high-scoring night, LeBron struggled from the field, shooting 1-for-7 (14%) from three, finishing 45% (10-for-22) overall from the floor.
Despite finishing with a team-high 34 points, Anthony Davis finished with a disappointing two-point total in the 4th quarter, adding 14 rebounds, 3 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal in 34 minutes.
“The sense of urgency is at an all-time high,” said Anthony Davis. “It has to happen now."
In a game in which former Laker Brandon Ingram scored 35 points, recent acquisition Rui Hachimura only saw 18 minutes of action, prompting many to wonder why head coach Darvin Ham didn't give him more playing time. Hachimura finished with 8 points and 5 rebounds in 18 minutes.
Following Saturday's loss, LeBron was asked if Kyrie Irving could help the Lakers cross the finish line (amid championship goals), with trade rumors escalating as Thursday's deadline approaches.
“That’s a Rob [Pelinka] question,” said LeBron James. “Obviously that’s a, what’s the word you use, "duh," question when you talk about a player that like that."
The Lakers will travel back home to face the 25–27 Oklahoma City Thunder on Tuesday at 7:00 PM on Spectrum SportsNet and TNT.
