Lakers Clinch Playoff Berth, Pelicans Fall Short in Thrilling Playoff Play-In
James Dominates, Pelicans Hurt by Williamson Injury
Los Angeles, California - May 15, 2023
The Los Angeles Lakers punched their ticket to the NBA playoffs with a decisive 124-108 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans in the Western Conference play-in tournament on Sunday night at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans.
LeBron James starred for the Lakers, recording a triple-double with 28 points, 17 assists, 11 rebounds, and five steals. James led a balanced Lakers attack that saw five players score in double figures. D'Angelo Russell added 15 points and six assists, while Anthony Davis scored 22 points and grabbed 11 rebounds.
The Lakers dominated the game in the second quarter, outscoring the Pelicans 34-16 to take a 62-46 lead at halftime. James scored 15 points in the second quarter, while Russell added 10.
The Pelicans fought back in the second half, but they were unable to close the gap. Brandon Ingram led the Pelicans with 23 points, while CJ McCollum added 19 points. Zion Williamson, who had been playing well in recent games, suffered an injury late in the fourth quarter that spoiled what could have been a dramatic comeback for the Pelicans.
With the victory, the Lakers will face the winner of Monday's play-in game between the Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings in the first round of the playoffs. The Pelicans will now have to wait for the results of the remaining play-in games to determine their fate.
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