The Lakers are part of a competitive seeding race in the West. (Photo by Luke Hales/Getty Images)
(Luke Hales via Getty Images)
The Los Angeles Lakers faced a tough challenge against the New Orleans Pelicans, but ultimately emerged victorious, solidifying their position in the playoff standings.
Following a 124-108 win over the undermanned Pelicans, the Lakers reclaimed the third spot in the Western Conference with a 47-30 record, surpassing the Denver Nuggets who suffered a defeat against the Golden State Warriors.
Despite a slow start against a depleted Pelicans squad, the Lakers managed to pull away in the fourth quarter and secure the win.
The standout performances of LeBron James, Luka Dončić, and Austin Reaves propelled the Lakers to victory, with Reaves setting a franchise record for 3-pointers in his past two games.
Looking ahead, the Lakers face a tough test against the NBA-leading Oklahoma City Thunder in their next game.
Warriors blow out short-handed Nuggets, Clippers do the same to short-handed Mavericks
In other Western Conference matchups, the Golden State Warriors dominated the Denver Nuggets, while the Los Angeles Clippers cruised past the Dallas Mavericks.
Stephen Curry led the Warriors with 36 points, while the Clippers showcased a strong performance against the Mavericks.
Western Conference standings after April 4
1. Oklahoma City Thunder, 64-13
2. Houston Rockets, 51-27 (13.5 games back)
3. Los Angeles Lakers 47-30 (17 GB)
4. Denver Nuggets, 47-31 (17.5 GB)
5. Golden State Warriors, 46-31 (18 GB)
T6. Los Angeles Clippers, 45-32 (19 GB)
T6. Memphis Grizzlies, 45-32 (19 GB)
T6. Minnesota Timberwolves, 45-32 (19 GB)
9. Dallas Mavericks, 38-40 (26 GB)
10. Sacramento Kings, 37-40 (27)