Pelicans Fall to Lakers, Suns Claim 6th Seed
The New Orleans Pelicans faced a formidable challenge against LeBron James and Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers in their final regular-season game. Despite their efforts, the Pelicans succumbed to a 108-124 defeat, allowing the Phoenix Suns to clinch the sixth seed in the Western Conference playoffs. This loss relegated the Pelicans to a play-in game against the Lakers for the seventh seed.
LeBron’s Milestone and Lakers’ Dominance
LeBron James reached a career milestone with 11,000 assists, orchestrating the Lakers’ offense perfectly with 8 assists in the first quarter alone. His all-around performance of 28 points, 17 assists, 11 rebounds, and 5 steals propelled the Lakers to a commanding lead, securing victory.
Davis Shines, Lakers Team Effort
Anthony Davis contributed 30 points and 11 rebounds, complementing James’ performance. Austin Reaves and D’Angelo Russell added 20 and 19 points respectively, as the Lakers boasted a team shooting percentage of 55.2%.
Pelicans’ Struggles and Individual Performances
Zion Williamson struggled with only 12 points and 8 rebounds on 4-of-13 shooting, while Brandon Ingram, returning from injury, scored 13 points. CJ McCollum led the Pelicans with 25 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds.
Thunder’s Dominance Secures Top Seed
The youthful Oklahoma City Thunder dominated the Dallas Mavericks 135-86, reclaiming the top seed in the Western Conference for the first time since the 2012-13 season, surprising many experts with their performance.
Nuggets Secure Second Seed
The defending champions, Denver Nuggets, secured the second seed with a convincing 15-point victory over the Memphis Grizzlies, setting up a first-round matchup against the winner of the Lakers-Pelicans play-in game.
Timberwolves to Face Suns in First Round
The Minnesota Timberwolves, finishing third, will face the Phoenix Suns in the first round. The Timberwolves hold a 2-1 advantage in regular-season matchups against the Suns.
Clippers Await Mavericks in First Round
The Los Angeles Clippers, having secured the fourth seed, will face familiar foes, the Dallas Mavericks, in the first round of the playoffs.(Jiliasia)
