The Lakers continue to show they can win even without LeBron James, as long as Luka Doncic and Austin Reeves are on the court. On Sunday night at Crypto.com Arena, the Lakers secured a 133-121 victory over the injury-plagued New Orleans Pelicans, with James sitting out due to a left foot injury.
The Lakers, now 15-4, have won seven consecutive games, fueled by Doncic’s 34 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists, alongside Reeves’ 33 points and eight assists. Doncic reflected on their partnership, saying, “I don’t know what was special about it, but I think we’re just better basketball players.”
Looking ahead, the Lakers have a game against the Phoenix Suns on Monday, but James’ participation remains uncertain. James has missed the first 14 games of the season because of sciatica and has played in only four games so far this season. Last year, he also missed multiple games due to a left foot injury.
Lakers coach JJ Redick emphasized caution, explaining, “Given the back-to-back games and that he just recently returned to training camp, we’re being careful.” At 40 years old and entering his 23rd NBA season, it’s unclear how many consecutive games James will be able to play. After Monday, the Lakers face 10 more back-to-back sets.
Redick added, “Our goal is to get him playing back-to-back games. That’s what he wants too, so we’re working towards it.” With 63 regular-season games left, James can only afford to miss two more to meet the NBA minimum of 65 games required for postseason award eligibility. James has made the All-NBA team for a record 21 straight years.
Still, Redick said postseason awards were not a priority in discussions with James. “I want all my players to earn the awards they deserve, but it’s not a top concern for us as a team.”
Against New Orleans, the Lakers scored 77 points in the first half—tying their season high—and 46 points in the first quarter, the most they’ve scored in any quarter this season. The Pelicans, who are 3-18, were missing key players including Zion Williamson, sidelined with a left hamstring injury.
Redick said, “We wanted to play with the right intent, and I think we did.” Lakers center Deandre Ayton contributed 22 points and 12 rebounds but injured his right knee late in the game. Though he missed one game earlier due to a knee injury, Ayton said he expects to be ready for the upcoming game against the Suns.
Lakers guard Marcus Smart missed his second consecutive game with back spasms.
Fan Take: This news highlights the growing strength and depth of the Lakers beyond just LeBron James, showing a promising future where other stars can step up and shine. For basketball fans, it could mark a shift toward a more balanced team dynamic and exciting gameplay regardless of James’ health status.
