Lakers vs Pelicans: Score, Highlights & Top Performers
Lakers vs Pelicans Jan 6, 2026 game recap with final score and key highlights. See top player performances and turning points from this NBA matchup.
The game started competitively, with both teams trading baskets in the first quarter. The Lakers led 29–25 after the first, with Luka Dončić and LeBron James pacing the offense early. The Pelicans fought back in the second and third quarters, even holding a lead late in the third. But the Lakers’ big fourth-quarter surge proved decisive
Final Score
- Los Angeles Lakers 111
- New Orleans Pelicans 103
In a high-intensity NBA matchup played on January 6, 2026 at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, the Lakers secured a hard-fought road victory over the Pelican
Quarter‑by‑Quarter Breakdown of Lakers vs pelicans
| Quarter | Lakers Score | Pelicans Score |
| Q1 | 29 | 25 |
| Q2 | 22 | 29 |
| Q3 | 28 | 32 |
| Q4 | 32 | 17 |
| Total | 111 | 103 |
Top Performers (Lakers)
Luka Dončić – 30 Points, 10 Assists
Luka was the driving force for the Lakers, contributing 30 points and 10 assists. His energy on both ends kept the offense alive throughout the game. He hit crucial shots down the stretch, including a deep-three that helped seal the comeback in the final minutes
LeBron James – 30 Points, 8 Rebounds, 8 Assists
At 41 years old, LeBron continued his MVP-level play — finishing with 30 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists. He led the fourth-quarter surge, connecting on big threes and key plays that swung momentum back to the Lakers
Deandre Ayton – 18 Points, 11 Rebounds
Ayton provided much-needed interior presence with an 18-point, 11-rebound double-double. His paint scoring and boards helped control second-chance opportunities
Marcus Smart – 13 Points
Smart chipped in 13 points, including timely three-pointers that kept Lakers close early on.
Also read: Bruins vs Kraken: Final Score & Highlights Jan 6 2026
Top Performers (Pelicans)
Trey Murphy III – 42 Points (Career-High)
Trey had a monster night, posting a career-high 42 points for New Orleans. He was the Pelicans’ leading scorer and kept his team competitive until the late stages of the game
Zion Williamson – 15 Points
Zion offered physical scoring inside with 15 points but couldn’t find consistent rhythm against the Lakers’ defense
Derik Queen – 10 Points, 13 Rebounds, 8 Assists
Queen had a strong all-around night, flirting with a triple-double — contributing in every major stat category except blocks.
Turning Point & Highlights
The third quarter saw the Pelicans take control early, stretching their lead as much as nine points. But the Lakers answered with a dominant fourth quarter, outscoring New Orleans 32–17.
Key moments included:
- LeBron’s two deep three-pointers to spark the run
- Luka’s clutch long-range shot as the shot clock wound down.
- A strong defensive push late from the Lakers to hold off Pelicans’ counterattacks.
What This Win Means
Lakers:
The victory marked their third consecutive win, showcasing their competitive grit and experience.
Pelicans:
Despite a great scoring night from Murphy, New Orleans suffered their eighth straight loss
Lakers move forward with confidence as they head to their next matchup, while Pelicans will look to regroup and end their losing streak.
Quick Stats Summary
Lakers Shooting: ~51% overall team field goals
Pelicans: struggled from deep, missing a large volume of three-point attempts.
Key Lakers Run: 18–4 run to start the fourth quarter sealed the comeback.
Conclusion
The Lakers vs Pelicans game was a thrilling NBA regular-season matchup filled with star power, clutch performances, and explosive scoring. With both LeBron James and Luka Dončić dropping 30 points each, the Lakers clinched a hard-earned 111-103 victory thanks to a dominant final quarter. Trey Murphy III’s career night for the Pelicans made it competitive, but Los Angeles’ experience and firepower proved too much in the end.
