Pelicans Seek Vengeance Against Lakers

New Orleans, LA - The New Orleans Pelicans (18-14) host the Los Angeles Lakers (17-16) on Sunday evening at the Smoothie King Center. Today's game is the first matchup between these teams since the NBA In-Season Tournament semifinals in Las Vegas.

The Lakers embarrassed the Pelicans 133-89 in that game, and the Pelicans look to redeem themselves from that loss on Sunday. Coach Willie Green and players told reporters this game holds more significance than a typical regular season game.

"Absolutely." Trey Murphy III told reporters when asked if the team is anxious to play the Lakers again. "You get embarrassed on national TV, big stage, you want to definitely get your get back, so I'm definitely looking forward to that." Murphy III is listed on the injury report with knee soreness and will be a game-time decision on Sunday.

Pelicans star Brandon Ingram is shooting a career-high 49.9% from the field this season. The former Lakers forward plays exceptionally well against the team that drafted him.

Ingram averages 24.2 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 4.4 assists versus the Lakers as a member of the Pelicans. B.I. will need a solid game to conquer Los Angeles' recent dominance over the Pelicans.

L.A. has won four last five games against New Orleans, including two straight in New Orleans. The Lakers are 6-12 on the road this season after a 108-106 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Saturday night.

Los Angeles' offense flows through its two stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Their work in the interior put the Lakers in the NBA's top five in shooting percentage and points in the paint.

All-Star forward Zion Williamson is eager for a better showing against the Lakers this time. In the semifinals of the In-Season Tournament, Williamson attempted just eight shots and scored 13 points.

Zion was a team-worst -33 while playing on the court that night. The highly anticipated matchup between him and LeBron James fell flat, with James putting on a masterful performance, scoring 30 points in just three quarters. Analytics from sites like MA Betting don't forsee another performance from Zion like that.

Sunday's game will likely be dominated by play in the paint as both teams struggle with their outside shooting. The Pelicans and Lakers rank No. 27 and No. 28 in three-point attempts, and three-point makes per game.

If Trey Murphy III can't play because of his knee soreness, the Pelicans won't have many options with an outside scoring threat. Rookie sharpshooter Jordan Hawkins was sent to the G League earlier this week.

New Orleans won its first home game on this current five-game stand on Thursday versus the Utah Jazz. If the Pelicans want a winning homestand, they must beat the Lakers on Sunday and the Brooklyn Nets on Tuesday. New Orleans is 10-7 at home this season.

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