The Pelicans were blown off the floor by the Lakers in Thursday night’s NBA in-season tournament semifinal, losing 133–89.
On a night when New Orleans needed star Zion Williamson to be at his best, he failed to meet the moment. With an opportunity to showcase his skills for a national TV audience in a playoff-type setting, the former No. 1 overall pick registered only 13 points and two rebounds.
Willamson, 23, buckling under pressure was even more egregious when 38-year-old LeBron James looked like a superstar. He led the Lakers with 30 points, including shooting 4-for-4 from three-point range. During the second quarter, James hit three consecutive three-pointers, firing up his teammates and effectively knocking out the Pelicans.
