Pelicans vs. Lakers Preview: The Pelicans are in a sluggish state, and the Lakers are in desperate need of a rebound after their disastrous defeat.

The Lakers' overall performance this season is good, with a record of 8 wins and 4 losses, ranking fourth in the Western Conference. In the last game, the Lakers suffered their worst defeat of the season in a 92-121 away defeat to the Thunder. They only scored 92 points, a season low. The team urgently needed a victory to boost morale. The Lakers averaged 115.9 points per game, ranking 9th in the Western Conference. They averaged 116.9 points per game, ranking 10th in the Western Conference. The points gained and lost were average.

Doncic is the Lakers' leading scorer, averaging 34.9 points, 9.1 rebounds, 8.9 assists and 1.8 steals per game. He is almost impeccable on a personal level. However, in the last game against the Thunder, Doncic encountered strict defense and only scored a season low of 19 points. Reeves averaged 28.9 points, 8.3 assists and 5.1 rebounds per game and was the team's second leading scorer. Rui Hachimura averaged 16 points per game, Ayton also averaged 15.5 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, and new aid Laravia and Smart also performed well. Although James has not played, the Lakers showed excellent overall combat effectiveness.

The Pelicans are the worst team this season. They have suffered three consecutive losses and ranked last in the Western Conference with a record of 2 wins and 9 losses. The Pelicans are weak both offensively and defensively, averaging only 108.8 points per game, ranking second from the bottom in the Western Conference. They concede 121.6 points per game, ranking third from the bottom in the Western Conference. Their average net loss to opponents is 12.8 points per game, ranking last in the Western Conference.

Zion is the core of the team, averaging 22.8 points, 6.8 rebounds, 4.6 assists and 2 steals per game. He ranks first in the team in four statistics, but he has missed 5 consecutive games before. Murphy averaged 18.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game and was the team's second-leading scorer. Poole averaged 17.3 points per game and has been absent due to injuries recently. Rookies Fells, Quinn and Saddiq Bey also averaged double figures per game, especially Quinn, who had a career night against the Trail Blazers in the last game.

In the last 10 games between the two teams, the Lakers have an absolute advantage with 9 wins and 1 loss. They have won 6 consecutive games against the Pelicans before. The last time the Pelicans defeated the Lakers was January 1, 2024. Although the Lakers are playing away from home again, the Pelicans are still suffering from internal and external troubles, and the Lakers have the best chance to win.

In terms of injuries, the Lakers' James and Vincent continue to be absent, and rookie Tierro is doubtful. The Pelicans' Murray, Poole, Zion, Trae Alexander, and Dickinson continue to be absent.