The Lakers once held an 18-point lead over the Pelicans in their play-in matchup. However, as the game progressed into the fourth quarter, they found themselves in a tight contest, tied at 99 with 1:32 remaining.

 

During the crucial moments, the Lakers relied on everyone to step up, and they delivered. D’Angelo Russell drained a clutch 3-pointer from the corner, Anthony Davis grabbed a crucial rebound and sank two free throws, while Austin Reaves calmly made his shots from the free-throw line to secure the victory. This win marks the first time a Western Conference team has won the No. 7 vs. No. 8 matchup as the eighth seed.

 

Following their playoff-clinching victory, the locker room was filled with positive energy. Austin Reaves highlighted LeBron James’ appreciation for his teammates after the game.

Lakers beat Pelicans in play-in, earn a playoff rematch with Nuggets | Loop Cayman Islands

 

“Bron looked at me in the locker room and said, ‘I don’t know the last time I shot 6-20,’ and praised the team for pulling us through this win,” Reaves said postgame. “For him to have confidence in me to make the right play means a lot, as it reflects his mentality of just wanting to win. He doesn’t always have to be the focal point of every possession, but he’s always ready to contribute.”

 

2024 SoFi Play-In Tournament - Los Angeles Lakers v New Orleans Pelicans

James has consistently trusted his teammates to step up when needed, evident from key shots made by his supporting cast throughout his Lakers tenure. Whether it’s Anthony Davis’ game-winner against the Nuggets in 2020 or Austin Reaves’ impactful performance against the Grizzlies in 2023, James prioritizes winning over personal accolades.

 

This team-oriented approach has been the Lakers’ recipe for success throughout the LeBron era, and the 2024 team is no exception.

 

“We’ve been playing good basketball, and everyone has been contributing,” James stated postgame. “AD and I didn’t shoot well tonight, but the rest of the guys picked us up. We need 16 more wins to earn our 18th NBA championship, and if we continue to receive strong performances from our supporting cast in the upcoming series against the Nuggets, we’ll be in a great position to achieve that goal.”