LeBron James and the Lakers clinched a playoff spot with a 110-106 win over the New Orleans Pelicans in the Western Conference play-in tournament.LeBron James contributed 23 points, nine assists, and nine rebounds, leading the Lakers to victory.
In his NBA postseason debut, Zion Williamson impressed with 40 points and 11 rebounds. However, his game was cut short due to an apparent injury after he tied the game at 95 with a driving layup in the fourth quarter.
The Lakers secured the win with crucial plays down the stretch, including a jumper from James, an alley-oop dunk by Anthony Davis, and a three-pointer by DeAngelo Russell. Davis finished with 20 points and 15 rebounds, while Russell added 21 points, including five three-pointers.
With the win, the Lakers advance to face the Denver Nuggets in the first round of the playoffs, starting on Saturday. On the other hand, the Pelicans will await the outcome of the play-in game between the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings to determine their next opponent.
What. A. Game. pic.twitter.com/Nc66jcPPFD
Advertisement— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) April 17, 2024
Despite a strong start from the Pelicans, the Lakers dominated the second quarter, outscoring their opponents 34-16. Although the Pelicans made a comeback in the second half, the Lakers held on for the win.
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Los Angeles Lakers: Open their first-round playoff series at Denver on Saturday.
New Orleans Pelicans: At home Friday for the do-or-die Western Conference play-in finale against either Golden State or Sacramento. And they could be without Williamson.
