In the highly anticipated matchup of the SoFi Play-In Tournament, the Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the New Orleans Pelicans. The game featured standout performance from Zion Williamson, who made his first playoff appearance and scored 40 points, leading a comeback from an 18-point deficit to tie the game late in the fourth quarter. However, it was not enough as the Lakers secured a 110-106 victory.
The Lakers will now advance as the No. 7 seed and face the defending champion Denver Nuggets in the first round of playoffs. Meanwhile, the Pelicans will have to play again in a do-or-die matchup against the winner of Warriors and Kings game for a chance to enter playoffs as No. 8 seed.
After the game, concerns about Zion Williamson’s health arose as he experienced “left leg soreness.” Coach Willie Green provided an update stating that an upcoming MRI will be done to determine the extent of injury. The Lakers improved their play-in record to 3-0 with this win and have history of success in these elimination games.
LeBron James led the Lakers with 23 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists while Russell and Anthony Davis also contributed to their victory. Coach Green received praise for making tough decisions by benching his star players when needed for team’s benefit