In a dozen previous seasons since the NBA returned to the Crescent City, New Orleans' franchise has never swept a season series from the Los Angeles Lakers. The Pelicans can move a step closer to doing just that on Wednesday, when they host the Lakers in a Western Conference matchup at the Smoothie King Center.
New Orleans has already posted a pair of drama-free victories against Los Angeles in 2014-15, including a 109-102 home triumph Nov. 12 and a 104-87 road win Dec. 7 at Staples Center. Pelicans All-Star forward Anthony Davis was spectacular in the Nov. 12 matchup, authoring one of his defining performances with 25 points, 12 rebounds and six blocks. He was an efficient 12-for-16 from the field. On Dec. 7, Davis compiled 23 points, six rebounds and two blocks, and several teammates turned in productive nights. In a return to his home city of Los Angeles, point guard Jrue Holiday went for 22 points and eight assists. Three other Pelicans delivered double-digit scoring, including reserves Ryan Anderson and Alexis Ajinca.
One key to beating the Lakers twice has been the Pelicans' defense vs. Lakers legend Kobe Bryant. The veteran guard scored 33 points Nov. 12, but he required 28 shots from the field to do so. On Dec. 7, Bryant managed 14 points on 6-for-18 shooting. Over the two games, Bryant is shooting just 16-for-46 from the floor (34.8 percent).
Following Wednesday's game, there will be one more tilt between the Lakers and Pelicans this season. On April Fool's Day, New Orleans opens a three-game West Coast road trip at Staples Center. Prior to the Pelicans' recent success, the Lakers had been a major thorn in the sides of New Orleans, during one stretch winning 11 consecutive meetings.
Intriguing matchup: Power forward, Anthony Davis vs. Ed Davis
In a battle of the Davises (no relation), Ed will try to prevent Anthony from adding to his season averages of 24.0 points, 9.0 rebounds and 4.0 blocks vs. the Lakers. Ed moved into L.A.'s starting lineup for good in the Dec. 7 meeting, tallying 12 points and seven rebounds. Anthony Davis' status is uncertain but he is considered day-to-day with a sprained left toe. He missed the last three games of the team's road trip due to the injury.