After the Lonzo Ball breakout game in the win against the Suns on Friday, the Lakers look to continue their momentum on Sunday night against the New Orleans Pelicans. The game tips off at Staples Center at 6 PM PST on Spectrum Sports Net.
The Lakers will certainly have their work cut out for them, as the Pelicans have arguably the best frontcourt in the league. Anthony Davis and DeMarcus Cousins, both expected to start, have been figuring out how to play alongside each other and will feast upon the Lakers weaker interior defense.
While the Pelicans have yet to win a game, the Lakers come into the game as a four and a half point underdog according to Westgate betting odds.
Things to watch for
-Tonight marks the Lakers debut for Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, who has been held out of the previous two contests due to a league suspension. This will help solidify a somewhat chaotic starting lineup, as Brandon Ingram can switch back to starting at small forward. It will be interesting to see how KCP plays against a Pelicans’ backcourt that is lackluster in talent.
-Lakers big men will have a steep uphill battle as soon as the ball tips, going up against two of the best bigs in the league. How they matchup and contain Davis and Cousins will ultimately decide the outcome of the game.
-Lonzo Ball took over the game against the Suns on Friday night after an unimpressive NBA debut against the Clippers. Inconsistencies are expected among rookies, but the Lakers need Lonzo to be performing at his best if they hope to take the game from the Pelicans.
Why not trade Randle for a draft pick. It’s obvious his dissatisfaction, lack of hustle as well as attitude, at this point of the season, could be better served with another team!