Lakers Beat Pelicans Behind Dončić and Reaves
Lakers vs Pelicans: Postgame Recap
The Los Angeles Lakers closed out Thanksgiving weekend with a strong 133–121 win over the New Orleans Pelicans. The Lakers vs Pelicans showdown featured explosive scoring from Luka Dončić and Austin Reaves, who carried the offense throughout the night.
Los Angeles (14–4) entered the game coming off a win against the Mavericks — a significant matchup for former Laker Anthony Davis, as it was his first game facing Los Angeles since last season’s trade.
New Orleans (3–17) continues to search for answers, though rookie Derik Queen remains a bright spot. His strong start to the season shows real potential for long-term growth.
THIS IS THE THIRD STRAIGHT GAME THAT LUKA AND AR HAVE SCORED 30+ POINTS IN THE SAME GAME 🤯
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) December 1, 2025
ELITE DUO 💯 https://t.co/iapRCnyVAh pic.twitter.com/IB7qZ491Nl
First Quarter
The Lakers set the tone early, storming to a 17–6 lead by forcing turnovers and pushing the tempo. Luka Dončić dominated from the opening tip, scoring 20 first-quarter points, nearly matching the Pelicans’ 27-point effort as a team. Los Angeles controlled the rhythm and ended the quarter with a 19-point advantage.
Second Quarter
Both teams played at a fast pace with minimal defensive resistance. Los Angeles and New Orleans traded baskets, each surrendering 30 points. Austin Reaves sparked the Lakers’ offense this period, scoring 13 points in 11 minutes. LA maintained a comfortable 20-point halftime lead.
Third Quarter
The Pelicans found some momentum early in the third, cutting the deficit to 11 midway through the quarter. The Lakers’ defensive focus slipped briefly, but they regained control down the stretch. Dončić climbed to 32 points through three quarters, further elevating his early MVP conversation. Los Angeles entered the final period up 16.
Fourth Quarter
The Lakers quickly sealed the win. The Pelicans’ defense struggled to contain Dončić and Reaves, who combined for 67 points, accounting for more than half of LA’s scoring output. Reaves finished with 33, Dončić with 34, and the Lakers secured a solid 133–121 victory, currently 2nd in the Western Conference standings.
