LOS ANGELES – Tight defense and accurate perimeter shooting have been hallmarks of New Orleans’ improved play since mid-December, but the Pelicans couldn’t accomplish either in the first three quarters Friday. Despite a fourth-quarter push that pulled New Orleans to within as close as seven points of the lead, the visitors couldn’t overcome what happened in the first 36 minutes, ending their four-game winning streak.
The Lakers led 105-83 through three quarters, enough of a cushion to prevail by double figures, despite a 30-18 edge by the Pelicans in the final stanza.
IT WAS OVER WHEN…
Danny Green swished a left-corner three-pointer with just over two minutes left, giving the Lakers a 10-point lead, after the Pelicans had outplayed them for much of the fourth quarter.