Lakers hold off Pelicans comeback, move on to play Nuggets in NBA play-in; Zion Williamson exits game with late injury

In a thrilling NBA play-in tournament matchup, the Los Angeles Lakers emerged victorious over the New Orleans Pelicans with a 110-106 win. Despite a stellar performance from Pelicans star Zion Williamson, who scored a season-high 40 points, the Lakers managed to secure the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

The game took a dramatic turn when Williamson suffered a late-game injury, leaving his availability for future games uncertain. Head coach Willie Green revealed that Williamson was dealing with left-leg soreness and was scheduled for an MRI the following day.

The Lakers built a significant lead, only to see the Pelicans mount a fierce comeback in the fourth quarter. However, key plays from Lakers players like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and D’Angelo Russell helped secure the win for Los Angeles.

Despite the loss, Williamson’s impressive performance, including multiple stops of James and a 40-point outing, showcased his potential as a rising star in the league. The Pelicans now face an elimination game against either the Sacramento Kings or Golden State Warriors, with their immediate concern being Williamson’s health.

The Lakers, on the other hand, look ahead to a challenging first-round matchup with the Denver Nuggets, setting the stage for a rematch of last year’s Western Conference finals. With their sights set on redemption, the Lakers will aim to overcome their past struggles against the Nuggets and advance in the playoffs.