LeBron’s Heroics in Vain as Lakers Suffer Back-to-Back Defeats

Despite a game-high 34 points and eight assists from the age-defying LeBron James, the LA Lakers faced another setback, falling 129-109 to the New Orleans Pelicans on New Year’s Eve. This defeat follows a close loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves the night before, marking the Lakers’ seventh loss in their last nine games.

The quick turnaround from the previous game impacted the Lakers’ performance, according to James. “We have to figure it out and get better, for sure,” he remarked, acknowledging the team’s struggle to play from behind this season. The Lakers star played through flu-like symptoms on both Saturday and Sunday, emphasizing the challenging circumstances: “The flight last night did not help, obviously. We didn’t get to the hotel last night until 3:45 (am). So, it was a rough day trying to recalibrate and get ready for the game. But I’m happy I was able to go out and just try to make some plays happen for my team.”

The Pelicans avenged their previous loss in the NBA In-Season Tournament, with Zion Williamson and Brandon Ingram leading the charge, each contributing 26 points. However, it was Jose Alvarado who stole the spotlight with steals from LeBron James and Anthony Davis. Alvarado expressed his admiration, saying, “LeBron, that’s one of the greatest players to ever play this game, and for me to be on the court, for me to get steals, for me to do anything, that’s pretty amazing.”