Lakers vs Pelicans Preview Lakers Look to Find Consistency

The Lakers vs Pelicans preview begins with Los Angeles searching for consistency as they take on New Orleans tonight. It has been a season defined by uneven stretches and unanswered questions. On paper, this is a game the Lakers should control.

I’ll be in New Orleans tonight as the Lakers look to win their 3rd straight game to start 2026 😈

I’ll be doing a LADE halftime meetup outside section 124 👀 pic.twitter.com/DWEbSp5MP0

— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) January 6, 2026

New Orleans owns the second-worst record in the NBA, and history shows Los Angeles usually closes games against subpar competition, even if the process is rarely smooth.

The two teams met previously on Nov. 30 in Los Angeles, where the Lakers earned a 133-121 win. A similar result feels realistic again, but the path there matters. One lingering concern remains whether the Lakers can finally hold an opponent under a 30-point quarter.

That benchmark has been surprisingly difficult to reach. Even in wins, Los Angeles has shown a habit of letting teams linger longer than necessary.

Lakers Familiar With Playing Down to Competition

That trend makes tonight more intriguing than the standings suggest. The Pelicans may be struggling, but effort has never been the issue. New Orleans continues to compete deep into games. The Lakers know how quickly momentum can swing if defensive focus slips. A win may be expected, but comfort is never guaranteed.

Trey Murphy III Remains a Threat

Trey Murphy III adds another layer to the challenge. The sharpshooter recently became the Pelicans franchise leader in three-pointers made.

He has also found success against the Lakers in the past. Los Angeles will need to stay attached to the perimeter. Murphy’s shooting can quickly turn a manageable game into a tight one.

New Orleans is also seeing growth from emerging guard Jeremiah Fears. He looks more confident with each outing. His development has been one of the few bright spots in a difficult season. Fears’ ability to create offense could test a Lakers defense that has struggled with containment.

Jake LaRavia Continues to Step Up

On the Lakers’ side, Jake LaRavia’s recent stretch has been impossible to ignore. Back-to-back 20-point performances against the Memphis Grizzlies highlight his growing confidence. His impact has been felt on both ends of the floor. With Austin Reaves sidelined, LaRavia has stepped into a larger role and responded.

Tonight offers another opportunity for him to show he is more than a spark. The Lakers need him to remain a net positive in meaningful minutes.

With Gabe Vincent, Rui Hachimura, and Adou Thiero also carrying added responsibility, this game becomes another test of depth and discipline. The Lakers are favored. Execution will decide whether this becomes a routine win or another night of unnecessary tension.