The New Orleans Pelicans have now lost five consecutive games.
The Pelicans continued their Western Conference road trip on Friday night. The Los Angeles Lakers defeated New Orleans 112-95.
New Orleans is now 4-7 overall.
How It Happened:
It was a hot start for the Pelicans.
They jumped out to a 28-20 lead after the first quarter. Pelicans guard Nickeil Alexander-Walker opened the scoring with an assist from forward Zion Williamson.
New Orleans led by 14 points with 1:39 left in the first quarter after a four-point play from JJ Redick.
Los Angeles cut the deficit down to eight points before the second quarter.
The Lakers were able to get to the free throw line in the first half. They outshot New Orleans 20-3 in free throw attempts in the first two quarters.
New Orleans turned the ball over 14 times in the first half. They still led by 15 points early in the second quarter. Alexander-Walker hit a 3-pointer with 6:37 left in the half to give the Pelicans a 45-30 lead.
The Lakers stormed back at the end of the first half and only trailed 58-57 going into the third quarter.
Los Angeles only allowed 37 total points in the second half. They outscored the Pelicans 27-16 in the third and 28-21 in the fourth quarter.
Anthony Davis gave the Lakers a one-point lead with a layup to open the third quarter. New Orleans forward Brandon Ingram hit a 3-pointer to give the Pelicans a 70-67 lead with 6:40 left in the third.
Los Angeles gained control from the end of the third unti the game clock ran out. The Lakers improved to 11-3 for the season.
Big Number: 37
The Lakers stepped up in the second half, especially on the defensive side of the ball. Los Angeles forced 14 turnovers in the first half but only allowed 37 points in the entire second half.
Player of the Game: LeBron James
It was another efficient night for LeBron James. He only played 31 minutes in the win but he was effective on the court. James recorded 21 points, 11 assists and eight rebounds. He shot 6-of-11 from the field and finished 7-of-7 from the free throw line.
Up Next: On the road against the Sacramento Kings, Sunday Jan. 17; Tipoff is scheduled for 8 p.m.