The strong always get stronger, but injuries are the most unfortunate variable in competitive sports.
In the 2025-26 NBA regular season, the matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and the New Orleans Pelicans is particularly intriguing due to their stark contrast in form. On one side is the Lakers, who have a strong start, and on the other is the Pelicans, plagued by injuries.
The Los Angeles Lakers currently lead the Pacific Division with an 8-4 record.
The New Orleans Pelicans, however, are struggling, sitting at the bottom of the Southwest Division with a 2-9 record. The team is averaging only 108.0 points per game, showing a generally poor performance. The absence of key players has significantly weakened their offensive firepower.
In basketball, the stronger team doesn't always win, but with Zion Williamson still sidelined, the Pelicans will undoubtedly face a huge challenge in defeating the Lakers. For the Lakers, this is a golden opportunity to solidify their division lead; for the Pelicans, it's a chance to prove they can fight tenaciously even without their star player.
