Alex Caruso’s Career-High Game Leads Lakers To Fourth Win In Last Five Games
Derick E. Hingle-USA TODAY Sports

The LeBron James-less Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Anthony Davis-less New Orleans Pelicans to begin their final road trip of the 2018-19 NBA season, 130-102.

The Lakers scored first, but the Pelicans went on a 7-0 run to begin the game. However, Rajon Rondo and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope combined for 20 points to tie it at 26.

With the Lakers bench starting the second quarter, they went on a 12-4 run led by Alex Caruso, who scored all of his 11 points — including two three-pointers.

While the Lakers established a five-point lead, the Pelicans made a run to close the first half to give themselves a 62-61 lead.

Caldwell-Pope’s 19 points led four players in double-figures as JaVale McGee had nine rebounds and Rondo added nine assists.

To begin the second half, Rondo’s quick six points helped the Lakers re-establish their lead.

While Rondo exited the game after accidentally getting elbowed by Ian Clark but later returned, McGee went coast-to-coast to give them an eight-point lead.

And when Caruso checked back in, he continued his hot first half by scoring a career-high 23 points to give the Lakers their biggest lead of the game, 105-84.

Although the Pelicans made one final push, the Lakers were able to extend their lead to 30 points and never looked back as Jemerrio Jones made his NBA debut.

Highlighted by Jones’ first points, six Lakers scored in double-figures as Rondo (24 points and 12 assists) and McGee (23 points and 16 rebounds) also had double-doubles.

The Lakers have now won four of their last five games since recently being eliminated from playoff contention by the Brooklyn Nets.

They also matched last season’s win total of 35 with five games still remaining in the season.

You May Also Like

Lakers Vs. Trail Blazers Preview: Anthony Davis Active; Troy Brown Jr. Makes Season Debut

The best chance to win a game in October comes for the Los Angeles Lakers on Sunday when they host the Portland Trail Blazers…

Recap: LeBron James, Montrezl Harrell Lead Lakers In Christmas Blowout Of Mavericks

Playing on Christmas Day a 22nd consecutive season and 47th time overall, the Los Angeles Lakers added to their…

Recap: LeBron James Celebrates 38th Birthday With Season-High 47 Points In Win Over Hawks

LeBron James got a great present for his 38th birthday as the…

Game Recap: Lakers Crushed By Timberwolves To End Road Trip

The Los Angeles Lakers looked to begin their second three game win-streak of the season tonight against the Minnesota Timberwolves…