NBA wrap: LeBron James's triple-double helps Lakers topple Pelicans

The Lakers got the better of the Pelicans on Friday.

Published : Dec 22, 2018 12:28 IST

LeBron James showcased his all-around game against the Pelicans, but was especially effective as a distributor.
LeBron James showcased his all-around game against the Pelicans, but was especially effective as a distributor.
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LeBron James showcased his all-around game against the Pelicans, but was especially effective as a distributor.

The Los Angeles Lakers got the better of the New Orleans Pelicans on Friday as it claimed a 112-104 victory in the Staples Center.

Rumors have been flying around the league about teams interested in a trade for the Pelicans center Anthony Davis — including the Lakers — but on the court Friday he couldn't quite get his team a win.

Both LeBron James and Davis were questionable for the matchup with illnesses, but both ended up playing. 

James led the way for the Lakers, recording 22 points, 12 rebounds and 14 assists. Kyle Kuzma led Los Angeles in scoring with 23 points on the night.

Anthony Davis scored 30 points and grabbed 20 rebounds in the Pelicans' losing effort.

LeBron showcased his all-around game, but was especially effective as a distributor. The Brow had a dominant game, but yet again, his supporting cast wasn't enough to achieve the desired result.

Studs of the Night

Kawhi Leonard scored 37 points on 12-of-16 shooting in the Toronto Raptors' 126-110 win over the Cleveland Cavaliers.

Emmanuel Mudiay scored 32 points in the Knicks' 114-107 loss to the Hawks while Lauri Markkanen scored 32 points and made four 3-pointers to help the Chicago Bulls beat the Magic 90-80.

Duds of the Night

D'Angelo Russell scored three points on 1-of-8 shooting in the Nets' 114-106 loss to the Pacers.

Terry Rozier scored four points on 1-of-7 shooting as the Celtics fell short to the Bucks 120-107.

Highlights

Miles Bridges brought the ball behind his back to split the defense for a lefty finish at the basket in the Hornets' 98-86 win over the Pistons.

 

Jaylen Brown took two dribbles and met Giannis Antetokounmpo at the rim and punched this hammer home.

 

What's Next?

Raptors (25-9) at 76ers (21-12) —  The last time these two teams met, they were close until Toronto pulled away in the fourth quarter to claim a 113-102 victory. Kawhi Leonard and Jimmy Butler put on stellar offensive performances, combining for 74 points in the matchup. This next matchup should make for an equally exciting game.

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