Los Angeles Lakers Make Franchise History With Record-Breaking First-Half Scoring Against New Orleans Pelicans

Photo: Instagram/Anthony Davis 

The Los Angeles Lakers showcased impressive offensive skills by establishing a franchise first-half scoring record, amassing 87 points at Crypto.com Arena against the New Orleans Pelicans.

This milestone surpasses memorable performances from the Magic Johnson and Showtime era, as well as the dominant Shaq and Kobe teams.

NBA analyst Steve Smith expressed disbelief at halftime, stating, "There's no way we should give up 87 points in a half, or 74. And we're talking about trying to do something special in April, May, and June."

Photo: Instagram/D'Angelo Russell 

Despite the offensive showcase, criticism was directed at the Lakers' defense, which allowed 74 points in the first half. A former Pelicans assistant coach remarked, "It's unreal what we're seeing right here with no defense being played. You have to take pride in that."

The Lakers demonstrated remarkable shooting accuracy, scoring 67.4% from the floor, 55% from beyond the arc, and 85.7% from the free-throw line. Their scoring distribution included 34 points in the paint, 13 off turnovers, and 11 from fast break opportunities.

New Orleans, while posting a solid 58.7% shooting effort and 40% from three-point range, couldn't contain the Lakers' offensive onslaught. A 12-2 run by the Pelicans in the third period brought them within four points at 92-88 with 7:34 on the clock.

The first-half scoring leaders featured Zion Williamson leading the Pelicans with 22 points, 6 rebounds, and 3 assists, while Brandon Ingram contributed 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 3 assists. 

For the Lakers, D'Angelo Russell led with 21 points, 2 rebounds, and 5 assists, while LeBron James added 14 points and 8 assists to the historic performance. (SOURCE: Sports Illustrated)

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