Lakers Aim for Seventh Straight Win Against Struggling Pelicans
The Los Angeles Lakers are gearing up for a potential seventh consecutive victory as they face off against the struggling New Orleans Pelicans this Sunday evening. Despite the absence of their 21-time All-NBA superstar, LeBron James, who is managing a left foot injury, the Lakers find themselves in a favorable position.
Injury Crisis for New Orleans
The injury woes run deep for the Pelicans, who are set to enter the matchup missing five of their top six players. The situation is exacerbated by the ongoing recovery of All-Star guard Dejounte Murray, currently sidelined with a ruptured right Achilles tendon that may keep him out for the entire season. The Pelicans will also be without two-time All-Star forward Zion Williamson, who is managing a left hamstring injury, as well as guard Jordan Poole, who is dealing with a left quadriceps strain, and wing Trey Murphy III, nursing right elbow soreness. Additionally, All-Defensive forward Herbert Jones is out with a right calf strain, further depleting New Orleans’ lineup.
The bench isn’t spared either; players like Jordan Hawkins, who is ill, and Karlo Matkovic, suffering from a right calf strain, will also miss the game. This injury list gives the Lakers a significant advantage heading into the contest.
Lakers’ Rising Prospects Amidst Challenges
While the Lakers navigate their own injury issues, including the absence of three-time All-Defensive Team guard Marcus Smart, they appear to be capitalizing on the Pelicans’ misfortunes. Second-year guard Bronny James, who has not yet made his mark in head coach JJ Redick’s rotation, is currently with the South Bay Lakers, the team’s G League affiliate.
The Pelicans’ struggles have been pronounced; they have managed to secure only one victory in their last ten games and possess a dismal record of 3-20 overall. Currently riding a two-game losing streak, they head into Crypto.com Arena with an abysmal 1-8 record on the road this season.
As the Lakers look to extend their winning streak, all eyes will be on whether they can exploit the Pelicans’ injury-riddled roster and assert their dominance on the court. Stay tuned for further updates as this matchup unfolds.
