Pelicans host Lakers in matchup of streaking teams

New Orleans looks to extend home win streak to 7 games against visiting Los Angeles

Mar. 19, 2026 at 6:34am

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The New Orleans Pelicans will host the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday in a matchup of two teams on hot streaks. The Pelicans have won 6 straight games at home, while the Lakers have won 5 of their last 6 overall. This will be the 4th meeting between the teams this season, with the Pelicans winning the last matchup 124-109.

Why it matters

Both the Pelicans and Lakers are fighting for playoff positioning in the Western Conference, so this game could have significant implications for the postseason race. The Pelicans are looking to continue their strong play at home, while the Lakers are trying to build momentum on the road.

The details

The Pelicans have been led by their dynamic backcourt duo of Zion Williamson and CJ McCollum, who have been averaging over 50 points per game combined during the team's 6-game home win streak. The Lakers, meanwhile, have gotten a boost from the return of Anthony Davis, who has helped the team win 5 of their last 6 games.

  • The Pelicans and Lakers will face off on Thursday, March 19, 2026.
  • New Orleans has won 6 straight home games heading into this matchup.

The players

Zion Williamson

The Pelicans' star forward, averaging over 25 points per game this season.

CJ McCollum

The veteran guard acquired by the Pelicans in a midseason trade, providing a scoring punch alongside Williamson.

Anthony Davis

The Lakers' star big man, who has helped the team turn things around after missing time due to injury earlier in the season.

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What they’re saying

“We know the Lakers are a tough team, but we're playing really well at home lately. We're confident we can protect our home court and keep this streak going.”

— Zion Williamson, Pelicans Forward

“Anthony's return has been huge for us. He's bringing that defensive intensity and scoring punch that makes us so tough to beat. We're excited for the challenge of going into New Orleans and trying to get a big road win.”

— LeBron James

What’s next

The winner of Thursday's game will take a big step towards securing a higher playoff seed in the Western Conference standings.

The takeaway

This matchup between the Pelicans and Lakers features two of the NBA's most exciting young stars in Zion Williamson and Anthony Davis, as well as veteran leadership from CJ McCollum and LeBron James. The game could have major implications for the Western Conference playoff race.