The Pelicans vs Lakers rivalry has long been a highlight of the NBA regular season, blending star power, intense competition, and a history of memorable moments. Whether it’s Pelicans vs Lakers or Lakers vs Pelicans, every face-off draws eyes from across the basketball world, as two Western Conference heavyweights clash for bragging rights and crucial standings points. The Pelicans-Lakers rivalry isn’t just about wins and losses—it’s about iconic players going head-to-head, young talent proving themselves against legends, and fans filling arenas to cheer on their favorite teams. As the 2024-25 season heats up, the next Pelicans vs Lakers game is already generating buzz, with fans eager to know where to watch New Orleans Pelicans vs Lakers, how the Lakers standings look, and what the New Orleans Pelicans bring to the table this time around.
Pelicans vs Lakers: Key Player Battles That Define the Rivalry
The Pelicans vs Lakers rivalry is often decided by individual matchups that showcase the best of both teams. One of the most anticipated battles is between Zion Williamson of the New Orleans Pelicans and Anthony Davis of the Los Angeles Lakers. Zion’s brute strength and ability to finish through contact make him a nightmare for defenders, while Davis’s length and shot-blocking skills are perfect for disrupting the Pelicans’ inside game. When these two go head-to-head, every possession becomes a physical contest that can swing the momentum of the game.
Another critical matchup is between Brandon Ingram and LeBron James. Ingram, a former Laker draft pick, has developed into one of the league’s top scorers, with a smooth jump shot and the ability to drive to the basket. LeBron, on the other hand, is a master of playmaking and can score from anywhere on the court. Their wing battle is a clash of generations—LeBron’s experience vs Ingram’s youthful exuberance—and it often determines which team controls the perimeter.
At the guard position, CJ McCollum of the Pelicans and D’Angelo Russell of the Lakers face off in a battle of sharpshooters. McCollum’s consistent three-point shooting and clutch performances have been key to the Pelicans’ success this season, while Russell’s playmaking and ability to hit big shots have helped the Lakers in tight games. The Pelicans-Lakers rivalry wouldn’t be the same without these guard duels, as they often decide the pace and scoring output of the game.
For Lakers vs Pelicans games, the dynamic shifts slightly—LeBron might take on a more facilitative role to get his teammates involved, while the Pelicans might rely on their fast break to catch the Lakers off guard. No matter the setup, these player matchups are what make Pelicans vs Lakers games must-watch television for NBA fans.
Where to Watch New Orleans Pelicans vs Lakers
If you’re eager to catch the next Pelicans vs Lakers game, here are the top ways to tune in:
- National TV Channels: Games between the New Orleans Pelicans and Lakers are frequently broadcast on ESPN or TNT, especially during primetime slots (7 PM ET or later). Check the NBA’s official schedule to confirm the channel for each matchup.
- Local Networks: For fans in New Orleans, Bally Sports New Orleans airs most Pelicans home and away games. In Los Angeles, Spectrum SportsNet is the exclusive home of Lakers games, offering pre-game shows and post-game analysis.
- Streaming Services:
- NBA League Pass: Out-of-market fans can watch every Pelicans vs Lakers or Lakers vs Pelicans game live with a League Pass subscription. Options include single-team passes (for Pelicans or Lakers fans) or full league access.
- Live TV Streaming: Services like Hulu + Live TV, Sling TV (TNT/ESPN package), and YouTube TV include NBA channels in their plans, making it easy to stream the New Orleans Pelicans vs Lakers game without cable.
- International Broadcasts: Fans outside the US can check local sports networks (e.g., Sky Sports in the UK, ESPN International in Latin America) or NBA League Pass Global for coverage.
Lakers Standings: Navigating the Western Conference Chaos
As of mid-January 2025, the Lakers standings in the Western Conference place them at 7th with a 22-18 record. Their recent form has been inconsistent—they won three straight games against the Nuggets, Timberwolves, and Clippers, but then dropped two in a row to the Suns and Jazz. Injuries have played a role in their ups and downs: LeBron James missed five games with a calf strain, and Anthony Davis sat out three with a back issue. When both stars are healthy, the Lakers are a top-tier team, but their depth has been a concern.
Every Pelicans vs Lakers game is crucial for the Lakers’ playoff aspirations. A win against the Pelicans would move them up to 6th place, avoiding the play-in tournament, while a loss could drop them to 8th. Fans are closely monitoring the Lakers standings, hoping that the team can find consistency in the second half of the season. The upcoming Lakers vs Pelicans game is a must-win for Los Angeles, as they look to solidify their spot in the top six.
New Orleans Pelicans: A Team on the Rise
The New Orleans Pelicans have emerged as a formidable force in the Western Conference this season, thanks to their core of young talent and veteran leadership. Led by Zion Williamson’s dominant inside presence—averaging over 27 points and 7 rebounds per game—the Pelicans have a potent offense that ranks 5th in the league in points per game (118.5). Brandon Ingram’s versatility as a forward (24 points, 5 assists per game) and CJ McCollum’s experience as a guard (21 points, 4 rebounds per game) add depth to their lineup, making them a tough opponent for any team, including the Lakers.
The Pelicans’ recent form has been impressive: they’ve won 8 of their last 10 games, including a 12-point victory over the defending champion Nuggets. Their defensive intensity has improved too—they now rank 10th in the league in defensive rating (111.2), thanks to players like Jonas Valančiūnas and Herb Jones. When the New Orleans Pelicans face off against the Lakers, their fast-paced offense and aggressive defense often create problems for the Lakers’ slower lineup, leading to exciting Pelicans vs Lakers matchups that keep fans on the edge of their seats.
Lakers vs Pelicans: What to Expect From the Lakers’ Side
When it’s Lakers vs Pelicans, the Los Angeles team brings a combination of experience and star power that’s hard to match. LeBron James, even in his late 30s, remains one of the best players in the league—averaging 25 points, 7 rebounds, and 8 assists per game. His ability to read the game and set up teammates makes him the heart of the Lakers’ offense. Anthony Davis, when healthy, is a defensive anchor (2.1 blocks per game) and offensive threat (23 points, 10 rebounds per game), making him a key matchup against Zion Williamson.
The Lakers’ bench has also shown signs of improvement this season: Austin Reaves (15 points per game) and Rui Hachimura (12 points per game) provide scoring and energy off the bench, while D’Angelo Russell (14 points, 6 assists per game) runs the second unit effectively. For Lakers vs Pelicans games, the key for Los Angeles is to slow down the Pelicans’ fast break and limit Zion’s touches in the paint. If they can do that, they have a good chance of coming out on top, which would boost their Lakers standings and solidify their position in the playoff race.
Why Pelicans vs Lakers Games Are a Must-Watch
The Pelicans vs Lakers rivalry is a perfect example of what makes the NBA great: star power, intense competition, and a history of memorable moments. Whether you’re a fan of the New Orleans Pelicans cheering for Zion’s dunks, a Lakers supporter tracking the Lakers standings, or just a basketball lover looking for exciting games, Pelicans vs Lakers matchups deliver every time. The next game between these two teams promises to be another thriller—so mark your calendars, grab your favorite snack, and tune in to watch the Pelicans-Lakers rivalry unfold.
From the physical battles inside to the sharpshooting from beyond the arc, every Pelicans vs Lakers or Lakers vs Pelicans game is a showcase of the best basketball has to offer. Don’t miss out on the action—check the schedule, find your viewing platform, and get ready to experience one of the Western Conference’s most exciting rivalries.