Three things to Know: Lakers blow out Pelicans for key win in West playoff chase

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The Lakers at Pelicans was a showdown of two teams in an insanely close race for a play-in spot in the West  — this game set up as the kind of late-season contest that can swing races.

So it would have been nice for New Orleans to show up. The Pelicans started 0-of-6 shooting from the field (with some questionable shot selection at points) while the Lakers were hot, raced out to a 14-0 lead, and never looked back, cruising to an easy win. Anthony Davis had 35 points and 17 rebounds — he has to play at that level for the Lakers to have a chance without LeBron James (foot injury).

Anthony Davis. Dominant.