Lakers Cruise Past Pelicans as Dončić and Reaves Combine for 55 in 118–104 Win

The Los Angeles Lakers continued their early-season surge on Friday night, defeating the New Orleans Pelicans 118–104 at Crypto.com Arena. The win showcased the full offensive potential of the team’s new core: Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and Deandre Ayton.

Dončić delivered a near–triple-double with 24 points, 12 assists, and 7 rebounds, dictating the pace from the opening tip. Reaves provided the scoring punch, exploding for 31 points on an efficient 9-of-16 shooting while adding 7 assists.

Ayton controlled the paint from start to finish, posting 20 points and 16 rebounds — including 13 on the defensive glass — as he outworked New Orleans’ depleted frontcourt.

“We’re building chemistry fast,” Ayton said after the game. “Luka makes the game easy, and Reaves is playing at an All-Star level.”

Lakers Set the Tone Early

Los Angeles jumped out to a 35–25 lead in the first quarter, sparked by Dončić’s playmaking. The Lakers never trailed again.

Despite the loss, Trey Murphy III was spectacular for the Pelicans, scoring 35 points (13-20 FG, 7-16 3PT). Rookie guard Jeremiah Fears added 19 points and a remarkable eight steals — the highest mark of the night — though late missed free throws stalled New Orleans’ comeback attempt.

Key Performances

Lakers

• Luka Dončić: 24 PTS, 12 AST, 7 REB, 2 STL
• Austin Reaves: 31 PTS, 7 AST, 4 REB, 11-13 FT
• Deandre Ayton: 20 PTS, 16 REB, 2 STL, 1 BLK

Pelicans

• Trey Murphy III: 35 PTS, 7 3PM
• Jeremiah Fears: 19 PTS, 8 STL
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Team Stats

• Lakers: 53.6% FG, 29.4% 3PT, 76.9% FT
• Pelicans: 44.3% FG, 35.3% 3PT, 77.8% FT
• Rebounds: LAL 51–42
• Turnovers: LAL 17, NOP 23

Game-Deciding Moments

• 1Q (6:20): Dončić tosses an alley-oop to Ayton for a 16–11 lead.
• 2Q (2:17): Dončić buries a step-back three to push it to 59–47.
• 4Q (1:05): Reaves picks off a pass and hits Rui Hachimura for a transition alley-oop, sealing the victory.

Injury Notes & Rotations

The Lakers held out Bronny James and Maxi Kleber (coach’s decision). New Orleans continued without Zion Williamson, and Kevon Looney played only 11 minutes before exiting early.

After the game, head coach JJ Redick praised his team’s cohesion:

“Luka and Reaves are clicking like they’ve played together for years. Ayton dominated the interior. This is the identity we want — pace, versatility, and aggressive defense.”