The Los Angeles Lakers showed grit and determination as they edged out the New Orleans Pelicans 118-104 in their NBA Cup clash on November 14, 2025. Despite a slow start, the Lakers found their rhythm and controlled the game, proving why they were the favorites going into this matchup.
Austin Reaves led the charge with an impressive 31 points, while Luka Doncic dazzled with 24 points and 12 assists, orchestrating the offense with precision. Deandre Ayton was a force inside, scoring efficiently and grabbing 14 rebounds, helping the Lakers maintain a comfortable lead throughout the night.
The Pelicans, missing key players due to injuries, fought hard but couldn’t keep pace with the Lakers’ balanced attack. New Orleans managed to cut the deficit at times, especially in the fourth quarter with an 8-0 run, but the Lakers quickly regained control after a timely timeout.
Early on, the Lakers struggled to find their footing, but a 13-0 run sparked by Marcus Smart, Reaves, and Ayton set the tone. By halftime, the Lakers had built a solid 65-52 lead, thanks largely to Doncic’s playmaking and Ayton’s dominance in the paint.
The third quarter saw the Lakers extend their advantage to 20 points, effectively putting the game out of reach. Although the Pelicans showed flashes of resilience, the Lakers’ depth and experience shone through, especially in clutch moments down the stretch.
This victory improves the Lakers’ record to 9-4, reinforcing their position as a strong contender in the Western Conference. Meanwhile, the Pelicans remain at the bottom with a 2-10 record, facing an uphill battle to turn their season around.
In all, the Lakers’ blend of star power and teamwork was too much for the Pelicans, who will need to regroup quickly if they hope to make a mark in the NBA Cup moving forward.
Sam, a dedicated blogger, has immersed himself in the world of content creation for the past five years. His journey reflects a profound passion for storytelling and insightful commentary. Beyond the digital realm, Sam is a devoted NBA enthusiast, seamlessly blending his love for sports with his writing pursuits.