In Los Angeles, LeBron James delivered an impressive 34-point performance, marking another significant milestone by becoming the first player to achieve 50,000 combined points in both the regular season and playoffs. This remarkable feat helped the Los Angeles Lakers secure a 136-115 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, pushing their current winning streak to seven games, the longest they’ve had in four years.
Joining the effort was Luka Doncic, who contributed 30 points, 15 assists, and eight rebounds for the Lakers. The team has won 17 of their last 20 games, propelling them to the second spot in the Western Conference standings with a 39-21 record. Despite missing key players Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura due to injuries, Jaxson Hayes stepped up with a season-high of 19 points and 10 rebounds, aiding the Lakers in securing their second consecutive win.
The Pelicans put up a spirited fight with a standout 37-point performance from Zion Williamson. Their road trip ended with a balanced 2-2 record while Trey Murphy III supported with 19 points. James’s milestone was celebrated with a 3-pointer early in the game, earning him a standing ovation from the Lakers fans, and he acknowledged the crowd’s appreciation with a wave.
Bronny James made an appearance in the final minutes, marking his return to NBA action after February 12, and scored two points.
In terms of performance analysis:
– **Pelicans:** Williamson was exceptional, hitting 17 out of 23 shots and adding six assists, giving New Orleans confidence in their offense against the NBA’s recent top defensive team.
– **Lakers:** Nearly all strategies are proving effective. With an 11-2 record since adding Doncic, and 7-2 when he plays, the team shows great depth as four supporting players scored at least eight points in the absence of Hachimura and Reaves.
**Key Moments:**
Doncic’s first-quarter 17 points stand as his season-high for any quarter, punctuated by three consecutive 3-pointers.
**Notable Statistic:**
LeBron James remains unique in NBA history with more than 45,000 combined points; the legendary Kareem Abdul-Jabbar follows at 44,149.
**Upcoming Games:**
The Pelicans are set to host the Rockets on Thursday night, while the Lakers will conclude their six-game homestand against the Knicks.
