Lakers Clinch 118-104 Win Behind Trio of Stars
In a balanced attack that showcased the depth of the Los Angeles Lakers, Luka Doncic, Deandre Ayton, and Austin Reaves combined to push past the New Orleans Pelicans 118-104 in an NBA Cup game. The win gave Los Angeles a perfect 2-0 start in Cup play, signaling their intent to contend deep into the tournament stage.
Reaves Leads the Charge with 31 Points
Austin Reaves was the catalyst for the Lakers, pouring in 31 points and providing the steady floor generalship that has become his calling card. He tempered his aggression with precision decision-making, hitting timely baskets and creating opportunities for teammates. Reaves’ performance was a reminder of his growing role as a go-to scorer in the Lakers’ lineup, particularly in high-stakes games where every possession counts.
Luka Doncic Elevates the Playmaking and Scoring
Luka Doncic contributed 24 points and dished out 12 assists, a stat line that underscored his dual impact on offense. His playmaking ability kept the Pelicans on their heels, with several standout passes that led to open looks for Reaves and Ayton. The efficiency and unselfishness Doncic displayed helped the Lakers maintain rhythm, especially during the second and third quarters when the game began to separate.
Ayton Adds Size and Interior Versatility
Deandre Ayton provided a physical presence in the paint, aligning with Doncic to form a formidable pick-and-roll threat. Ayton’s scoring around the basket, paired with his rebounding and defensive presence, helped the Lakers control the game in stretches. His ability to anchor the defense and finish above the rim gave Los Angeles a necessary edge on New Orleans’ frontline.
A Strong Team Effort in a Competitive Cup Atmosphere
While the headline performances came from the Lakers’ top trio, the victory reflected a well-rounded team effort. Bench contributors logged meaningful minutes, continued to execute the coaching staff’s game plan, and helped maintain the momentum built by the starting unit. In cup play, where every win carries extra weight for seeding and advancement, the Lakers showed they can win in multiple ways, whether by heavy scoring bursts or grind-it-out defense.
Momentum and Road Takes
The victory in New Orleans provides a lift as the Lakers navigate a demanding schedule. With Doncic orchestrating the offense, Reaves providing the scoring punch, and Ayton anchoring the defense, Los Angeles strikes a balance that could serve them well in a shortened NBA Cup path. The team will look to carry this momentum into upcoming matchups, where consistency will be the key to sustained success.
What This Means for Lakers Fans
For Lakers supporters, the 2-0 start in NBA Cup play is a promising sign. It demonstrates that the team can win with a blend of star power and depth, a crucial factor when navigating the season’s compressed Cup format. If this trio can stay connected and limit turnovers, Los Angeles could be a formidable force as the competition advances.
Closing Thoughts
The Lakers’ 118-104 win over the Pelicans was a statement game in the NBA Cup, powered by standout performances from Doncic, Ayton, and Reaves. It wasn’t just a showcase of individual talent; it was a demonstration of a cohesive unit capable of delivering in important moments. As the Cup schedule unfolds, fans will be watching to see how far this dynamic trio—and the supportive pieces around them—can carry Los Angeles toward postseason excitement.
