Lakers Dominate Pelicans: LeBron's Historic Night & Dončić's Dazzling Display
The Los Angeles Lakers secured a commanding 136-115 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on March 5th, 2025, a game highlighted by LeBron James' historic achievement and Luka Dončić's masterful performance. The dynamic duo combined for an astounding 64 points, electrifying the Crypto.com Arena crowd.
LeBron James Enters the 50,000-Point Club
The night belonged to LeBron James, who became the first NBA player ever to reach 50,000 career points. He achieved this milestone with a smooth three-pointer assisted by Dončić, sending the arena into a frenzy. James finished the game with 34 points, 8 rebounds, and 6 assists, showcasing his continued dominance even in his 22nd season. This incredible feat adds another layer to his already legendary career, cementing his place as one of the greatest basketball players of all time. The achievement was celebrated by fellow Lakers legends like Magic Johnson on social media.
Luka Dončić's All-Around Excellence
While James stole the headlines, Luka Dončić delivered a breathtaking performance of his own. He tallied 30 points and an impressive 15 assists, showcasing his exceptional playmaking abilities. This remarkable stat line makes him only the fourth Laker in history to achieve 30 points and 15 assists in a single game, joining the elite company of James, Magic Johnson, and Jerry West. Dončić's impact extended beyond his own scoring, creating numerous opportunities for his teammates.
Other Key Highlights
- Jaxson Hayes' Breakout Game: Pelicans' center Jaxson Hayes recorded a season-high 19 points, showcasing his athleticism and providing a bright spot for New Orleans.
- Lakers' Rebounding Dominance: The Lakers out-rebounded the Pelicans 52-41, demonstrating their superior physicality and control of the boards.
- Balanced Lakers Offense: While Dončić and James led the charge, the Lakers demonstrated a balanced offensive attack, with multiple players contributing significantly to the score.
Looking Ahead
The Lakers, riding a seven-game winning streak, now face the New York Knicks on Thursday. With Dončić and James leading the charge, and the team's strong momentum, the Lakers are poised to continue their playoff push. The question now is: can they maintain this high level of performance against a tough Knicks team? Only time will tell.