It was readily apparent which team entered with a higher degree of confidence, but following a full 48-minute effort — one they’ve been seeking for weeks, the New Orleans Pelicans rediscovered their preferred style of play, tenacity and focus in a 131-126 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers.
The Lakers looked incredible loose during pregame action. While running layup lines, they were dancing, joking and throwing fun passes for dunks — even LeBron James showed off some extra oomph by jamming one down with great authority.
The Pelicans, on the other hand, appeared much more business-like in their approach, mimicking a team that’s about to play in front of thousands on the road.