Lakers vs Pelicans Preview: Can LA Keep Rolling?
LAKERS LOOKING to Build Momentum at Home
This Lakers vs Pelicans Preview breaks down tonight’s matchup as the Los Angeles Lakers host New Orleans at 7:30 PM PT in a crucial Western Conference showdown. This will mark the third game in four days for Los Angeles, as they look to continue their two-game winning streak.
As mentioned, Los Angeles has been rolling in its last two games in blowout victories against the Warriors and the Sacramento Kings. Granted, the Warriors did not have Steph Curry on the floor, and the Kings are currently sitting with the worst record in the league, these wins still matter for this Lakers team who dropped some important games as of late.
With the Western Conference standings as close as they are, every win matters. The Lakers currently hold the 6th seed and do not want to drop into play-in territory, which would not be a good look for Los Angeles.
Here’s what Lakers fans should be rooting for tonight ⬇️
Lakers BEAT Pelicans
Wolves LOSE to Grizzlies
Suns LOSE to KingsJust 2 GB of the 3rd seed 👀 pic.twitter.com/JyDu0xeEnl
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) March 3, 2026
Chemistry and Health Trending in the Right Direction
Not only are these games important record-wise, but just as important is allowing Los Angeles to build rhythm with all their stars healthy and on the court. Since coming back from the All-Star break, there hasn’t been significant time missed from anyone in the rotation. Rui Hachimura missed two games due to illness but returned against the Kings.
These stretches are critical for the Lakers to establish chemistry, consistency, and late-game execution — especially with the postseason approaching.
Pelicans Playing Better Than Their Record Suggests
Although the Pelicans have one of the worst records in the league, they have been playing solid basketball recently. New Orleans has won four of their last five games while welcoming back All-Star guard Dejounte Murray from an Achilles tear, which he suffered last season.
The Pelicans are going to compete tonight. If they keep the game close heading into the fourth quarter, they will give themselves a real chance to steal one on the road.
Keys to the Game: Rebounding and Defense
This will be no easy task for Los Angeles. The Lakers must start strong and avoid letting up. The narrative around the league has been simple: keep the game close late against the Lakers, and you have a chance to win. We’ve seen that play out against teams like the Suns and the Magic.
The keys tonight are clear — control the glass, eliminate second-chance points, and defend consistently for four quarters.
Final Thoughts
Though this game may look lopsided on paper record-wise, expect a competitive matchup. If the Lakers handle business early and maintain defensive intensity, they should protect home court. But if New Orleans hangs around late, it could turn into another tight finish.
