LA Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans Clash Nov 14 2025 NBA Cup Full Player Stats and Box Score
The LA Lakers faced off against the New Orleans Pelicans on November 14, 2025, at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans. The matchup was part of the NBA Cup, featuring two teams with contrasting fortunes this season. The Lakers entered with an 8-4 record, holding fifth place in the Western Conference, while the Pelicans struggled at 2-9, sitting in last place.
Game Overview
The Lakers made notable adjustments to their starting lineup, incorporating Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, Marcus Smart, and Deandre Ayton. The Pelicans opted for a lineup that included Jeremiah Fears, Herbert Jones, Trey Murphy III, Saddiq Bey, and Kevon Looney. With injuries impacting the Pelicans’ roster, the Lakers were heavily favored.
Key Moments
- The Lakers opened the game slowly but found their rhythm quickly.
- A 13-0 scoring run propelled them to a 23-11 lead early in the first quarter.
- By the end of the first quarter, the Lakers led 35-28, thanks to contributions from Smart, Reaves, and Ayton.
Second Quarter Surge
Luka Dončić dominated the second quarter, providing nine assists and scoring 20 points before halftime. He was instrumental in the Lakers’ scoring, as Jake LaRavia and Ayton capitalized on his playmaking skills. By the halftime break, the Lakers extended their lead to 65-52.
Third Quarter Expansion
The Lakers maintained their momentum, at one point expanding their lead to 20 points. Deandre Ayton was particularly impressive, hitting 10 of 11 shots for a total of 20 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. The score at the end of the third quarter was 95-77 in favor of the Lakers.
Final Quarter Dynamics
The Lakers encountered difficulties at the start of the fourth quarter. The Pelicans seized the opportunity, executing an 8-0 run that cut the Lakers’ lead to 10 points. Lakers coach JJ Redick promptly called a timeout to regroup his team. The Lakers, however, regained control, as Reaves, Dončić, and Ayton combined for 75 points throughout the game.
Final Score
The Lakers ultimately secured a 118-104 victory against the Pelicans.
Player Statistics
| Player | Minutes | Points | Rebounds | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marcus Smart | 34:25 | 13 | 5 | 6 |
| Rui Hachimura | 35:04 | 14 | 10 | 1 |
| Deandre Ayton | 38:34 | 20 | 14 | 1 |
| Austin Reaves | 38:54 | 31 | 11 | 6 |
| Luka Dončić | 40:13 | 24 | 12 | 16 |
With this performance, the LA Lakers continue to solidify their standing in the Western Conference, while the struggling Pelicans will aim to regroup and improve in upcoming matches.
