Los Angeles Lakers defeats New Orleans Pelicans 110-101
Los Angeles Lakers Surge Past Pelicans in Fourth Quarter
The Los Angeles Lakers overcame a slow start and a strong performance from the New Orleans Pelicans to secure a hard-fought 110-101 victory on Monday night at Crypto.com Arena. A dominant fourth quarter, fueled by strong individual performances, proved to be the difference for the Lakers, who improve their regular season record. The game, played on March 3, 2026, showcased a resilient Lakers team battling back from multiple deficits.
Game Flow
The game began as a tight affair, with both teams trading baskets early on. New Orleans came out firing, utilizing their athletic wings to create separation and finish at the rim. Q1: LAL 31 - 33 NOP saw the Pelicans establish a small lead, relying on CJ McCollum's scoring prowess. The second quarter witnessed a shift in momentum as the Lakers’ defense tightened and LeBron James began to aggressively attack the basket. Q2: LAL 23 - 18 NOP resulted in the Lakers taking a narrow lead into halftime, mainly due to improved paint scoring.
The third quarter, however, belonged to the Pelicans. New Orleans exploited mismatches and consistently found open looks from beyond the arc. Zion Williamson capitalized on his size and strength, dominating inside. Q3: LAL 22 - 27 NOP saw the Pelicans regain control, entering the final frame with a six-point advantage.
The Lakers displayed their championship mettle in the fourth quarter, unleashing a furious comeback. A combination of tenacious defense, smart shot selection, and timely scoring from several key players shifted the momentum back in their favor. A 15-4 run midway through the quarter gave the Lakers the lead, and they never relinquished it. Q4: LAL 34 - 23 NOP. The Pelicans struggled to answer, committing costly turnovers and failing to connect on crucial shots. The Lakers controlled the boards and effectively managed the clock in the closing minutes, securing a 110-101 victory.
Highlight Players
LeBron James led the Lakers with a commanding performance, finishing with 28 points, 10 rebounds, and 12 assists. James showcased his all-around game, driving to the basket, hitting jump shots, and facilitating for his teammates. He was particularly effective in the fourth quarter, scoring 14 of his points in the final frame, willing the Lakers to victory.
Anthony Davis was a force inside for the Lakers, contributing 24 points, 15 rebounds, and 3 blocks. Davis’ presence in the paint deterred numerous Pelicans drives and allowed the Lakers to control the glass. He also provided a crucial defensive anchor, altering shots and protecting the rim.
For the Pelicans, CJ McCollum was the standout performer, scoring 32 points on an efficient shooting night. McCollum consistently created scoring opportunities for himself and his teammates, but ultimately his efforts weren't enough to overcome the Lakers’ late-game surge. He added 6 assists and 4 rebounds.
Team Stats Breakdown
The Los Angeles Lakers shot 48.2% from the field (42 of 87) compared to the New Orleans Pelicans' 44.7% (38 of 85). The Lakers dominated the rebounding battle, finishing with 52 rebounds to the Pelicans’ 40. The Lakers owned a significant advantage in points in the paint, outscoring the Pelicans 66 to 44.
Assists were nearly even, with the Lakers recording 27 assists and the Pelicans totaling 26. Turnovers proved costly for the Pelicans, who committed 18 to the Lakers’ 12. The Lakers also capitalized on second-chance points, scoring 18 to the Pelicans' 12. Steals were also in favor of the Lakers (8 to 5). The Lakers’ bench contributed 30 points, while the Pelicans’ bench added 24.
Lakers Key Stats: FG% 48.2%, 3P% 34.6%, FT% 76.3%, Rebounds 52, Assists 27, Turnovers 12, Points in the Paint 66.
Pelicans Key Stats: FG% 44.7%, 3P% 38.1%, FT% 78.6%, Rebounds 40, Assists 26, Turnovers 18, Points in the Paint 44.
Next Game Preview
The Los Angeles Lakers will hit the road to face the Denver Nuggets on Tuesday, March 5, 2026. The Nuggets, currently a top team in the Western Conference, will provide a significant challenge for the Lakers. Tip-off is scheduled for 9:00 PM PST at Ball Arena. This matchup will test the Lakers’ ability to perform consistently against elite competition and will be a crucial game as they continue their push for playoff positioning.