In a thrilling encounter that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Los Angeles Lakers edged past the New Orleans Pelicans with a razor-thin victory, finishing 104-99. This win not only marked their fifth consecutive triumph but also showcased a team firing on all cylinders, boasting the best offensive rating in the league during this streak, standing impressively at 122.6.
Anthony Davis Takes Center Stage
Front and center of this victorious charge was Anthony Davis, whose performance continues to shine as brightly as the iconic Hollywood sign that towers over the city. Davis was a towering presence, scoring 31 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. This outing marked yet another chapter in his outstanding season, as he has now surpassed the 30-point mark in eight separate games.
In a post-game reflection, Davis humbly acknowledged his contribution, stating, "It's huge for our team," underscoring how critical his performance was to this win streak. Indeed, his ability to adapt and find success beyond his usual strongholds has become a defining aspect of his game this season. Once restricted by opponents packing the paint, Davis now exploits defenses from beyond the arc, adding another dimension to his offensive arsenal. Against the Pelicans, he delivered on two of four three-point attempts. This recent stretch of fiery shooting reflects a staggering 62.5% success rate from three-point range over the last five games.
Addressing this shift, Davis explained, "A lot of guys will be in the paint and try to help, especially big men. I fell victim to it a couple times. But it's just instinctual for a big to be in the paint, especially when one of the guards has the ball and they're driving or in a post-up." The Lakers' big man has leveraged this instinct to his advantage, taking his game beyond the parameters that had previously limited him.
Redefining Expectations from Beyond the Arc
Davis’s improved shooting efficiency is a departure from previous seasons. Historically, his three-point shooting hovered around 25% between 2021 and 2024. However, during 2018 to 2020, he was more reliable from distance, knocking down at least 33% each season. This rekindling of a dormant skill has proven critical for the Lakers, offering a vital release valve for floor spacing.
"So for me to be able to step out and make a couple 3s definitely put us over the hump," Davis elaborated, "and put the defense in a bind, especially the big men. They're either gonna leave me open or have [LeBron James], [Austin Reaves], [Rui Hachimura], whoever is in the post or has the ball, has single coverage and go to work." His newfound proficiency from beyond the arc forces opposing defenses to recalibrate, leaving them with an unenviable set of choices.
Lakers on a Roll
This tactical evolution has been emblematic of the Lakers' current success. Not only has Davis been a linchpin, but the synergy within the team has contributed to the consistent execution of their game plan. With a record of 9-4, the Lakers are crafting an identity built around depth and unpredictability, a strategy that is paying dividends.
The Lakers' trajectory is even more remarkable considering the competitive landscape of the league. Claiming victories in tightly contested matches like the one against the Pelicans underscores their mettle and adaptability on the hardwood. With Davis continuing to evolve and the team working in concert, the Lakers are crafting a compelling narrative of resurgence in this season’s saga.