BREAKING: Los Angeles Lakers Set A Franchise First-Half Scoring Record Versus New Orleans Pelicans

The New Orleans Pelicans allowed the Los Angeles Lakers to set a franchise first-half scoring record.

The New Orleans Pelicans allowed the Los Angeles Lakers to set a franchise first-half scoring record of 87 points at Cypto.com Arena.  To put the offensive output in perspective, tonight's performance bested any games from the Magic Johnson and Showtime era, and even the Shaq and Kobe teams.

"There's no way we should get to give up 87 points in a half, or 74," NBA analyst Steve Smith said at halftime. He continued, "And we're talking about trying to do something special in April, May, and June."

Feb 9, 2024; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) moves to the basket against New Orleans Pelicans guard Dyson Daniels (11) during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

However, Los Angeles' defense could have been better by surrendering 74 points in the first half. 

Former Pelicans assistant coach said, "It's unreal what we're seeing right here with no defense being played. You got to talk about offensive deficiencies; great, but why? There's zero defense being played. You have to take pride on that."

The Lakers scored 67.4% from the floor, 11 of 20 (55%) from beyond the arc, and 85.7% from the charity line. Thirty-four points were in the paint, 13 off of turnovers, and 11 were on fast break opportunities.  

New Orleans posted a solid 58.7% shooing effort and 40% from the three-point line.  

New Orleans opened a 12-2 run at the beginning of the 3rd period to come within four points at 92-88 with 7:34 on the clock.

FIRST-HALF SCORING LEADERS

Pelicans

• Zion Williamson - 22 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists
• Brandon Ingram - 16 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists

Lakers

• D'Angelo Russell - 21 points, 2 rebounds, 5 assists
• LeBron James - 14 points and 8 assists