Lakers Vs Pelicans 2023

Los Angeles Lakers In-Season Tournament Title Run Continues

LeBron James Powers Lakers Past Pelicans in Tournament Semifinals

Los Angeles, CA - December 7, 2023

The Los Angeles Lakers continued their impressive run in the 2023 In-Season Tournament with a hard-fought victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Wednesday night. Led by a vintage performance from LeBron James, the Lakers punched their ticket to the tournament final.

James, who turned 38 last month, put together a dominant all-around game, finishing with 31 points, 9 rebounds, and 7 assists. He was particularly effective in the first half, scoring 19 points and helping the Lakers build a double-digit lead by halftime.

The Pelicans put up a valiant effort in the second half, erasing the Lakers' lead and taking a brief advantage in the fourth quarter. However, James and the Lakers' supporting cast stepped up down the stretch to secure the victory.

Anthony Davis added 25 points and 12 rebounds for the Lakers, while Russell Westbrook chipped in 18 points off the bench. Brandon Ingram led the Pelicans with 29 points, followed by CJ McCollum with 23 points and Jonas Valanciunas with 15 rebounds.

With the win, the Lakers improve to 2-0 in the tournament and will advance to the final, which will be played on Friday night against the winner of Thursday night's semifinal between the Phoenix Suns and the Dallas Mavericks.

Pelicans Highlights from In-Season Tournament Semifinal

* Ingram scored 29 points, including 16 in the fourth quarter * McCollum added 23 points, 6 rebounds, and 5 assists * Valanciunas grabbed 15 rebounds, including 9 on the offensive end * The Pelicans shot 44.4% from the field and 35.7% from three-point range * New Orleans committed 14 turnovers, leading to 16 points for the Lakers