In a thrilling display of basketball prowess, the Los Angeles Lakers secured a hard-fought victory over the New Orleans Pelicans, earning a 104-99 win that extended their winning streak to five games. This triumph brings the Lakers to a 9-4 record, an early season achievement that showcases their rising form.
At the center of this success was Anthony Davis, who delivered a dominant performance that almost single-handedly carried the Lakers over the finish line. Scoring 31 points and grabbing 14 rebounds, Davis showcased both elite scoring and remarkable defensive abilities. His performance continued a trend of high-scoring games, marking the eighth time this season he has surpassed the 30-point milestone.
Davis's Long-Range Prowess
While known for his formidable presence in the paint, Davis has added an unexpected weapon to his arsenal: the three-point shot. Against the Pelicans, he made two of his four attempts from beyond the arc. This game also marked his fifth consecutive outing with multiple successful three-pointers, underscoring his growing confidence and effectiveness from long range. Over this stretch, he has maintained an impressive 62.5% shooting percentage from three-point territory.
Reflecting on his evolving skill set, Davis remarked, "It's huge for our team." The ability to step out and make crucial shots from the perimeter is not only impactful for Davis but also beneficial for his teammates. "A lot of guys will be in the paint and try to help, especially big men. I fell victim to it a couple times. But it's just instinctual for a big to be in the paint, especially when one of the guards has the ball and they're driving or in a post-up," he added.
His newfound shooting precision is a significant departure from his past performance from beyond the arc. Historically, Davis shot around 25% on three-point attempts between 2021 and 2024, a number that has significantly improved this season. Interestingly, this shift is somewhat of a return to form, as he had shot at least 33% from three between 2018 and 2020.
Implications for Opponents
Davis's shooting evolution poses a conundrum for opponents, especially opposing big men who must now account for his presence outside the paint. "For me to be able to step out and make a couple 3s definitely put us over the hump and put the defense in a bind, especially the big men. They're either gonna leave me open or have [LeBron James], [Austin Reaves], [Rui Hachimura], whoever is in the post or has the ball, has single coverage and go to work," Davis explained.
This strategic advantage is complemented by the Lakers' league-leading offensive rating of 122.6 during their current winning streak. It is clear that Davis's long-range capability demands respect from defenses, creating more opportunities for his teammates to exploit in single coverage situations.
A Winning Formula
The Lakers' current success is a testament to their ability to adapt and evolve as a team. Their offensive versatility is proving to be a key factor, enabling them to dictate the flow of the game and pressure defenses in multiple areas. As Davis continues to excel, both as a scorer and a defensive stalwart, his teammates benefit from the extra space and opportunities he provides on the floor.
With their impressive form and an expansive offensive playbook, the Lakers look poised to continue their winning ways. As the season progresses, opponents will need to find creative solutions to counter a Lakers team that is firing on all cylinders and led by a revitalized Anthony Davis.