Key Highlights
- The Los Angeles Lakers are set to face the New Orleans Pelicans in a Western Conference matchup as part of NBA Cup group play.
- LeBron James is ruled out due to right sciatica, while Gabe Vincent and Adou Thiero are also questionable for the game.
- Zion Williamson will miss his sixth consecutive game with a left hamstring strain, while Jordan Poole and Dejounte Murray remain sidelined for New Orleans.
- The Lakers enter the game with an 8-4 record after losing to the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday night.
NBA Matchup: Los Angeles Lakers vs. New Orleans Pelicans
On Friday, November 14, 2025, the Los Angeles Lakers will travel to New Orleans to take on the Pelicans in a crucial Western Conference matchup as part of NBA Cup group play.
Lakers Struggle with Injuries but Aim for Victory
The Lakers enter this game with an 8-4 record following their recent loss to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Despite facing several injury concerns, Coach Frank Vogel will rely on key players like Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves to carry the load offensively.
Three Lakers players are listed as injured for Friday’s game: LeBron James is ruled out due to right sciatica but is close to returning after practicing with the G League team. Gabe Vincent is also questionable following a left ankle sprain, while Adou Thiero remains in doubt after knee surgery.
Pelicans Reeling from Losses
The Pelicans face their own challenges as they enter Friday’s contest with a 2-9 record. The team will be without star forward Zion Williamson for the sixth consecutive game due to a left hamstring strain, though he was cleared for contact on Thursday and is nearing a return.
Other key players sidelined include Jordan Poole, who remains out due to a left quad strain, and Dejounte Murray, who continues recovery from an Achilles tear. Backup options like Derik Queen and Saddiq Bey are expected to see increased roles in Williamson’s absence.
Key Players to Watch
The success of both teams will largely depend on the performances of their key players. For the Lakers, Doncic’s leadership and Reaves’ contributions will be crucial as they look to bounce back from Wednesday’s loss against the Thunder.
On the Pelicans side, Queen has stepped up with impressive performances in recent games. His ability to score and contribute on both ends of the court could be pivotal for New Orleans in their quest to win their first game since early October.
Conclusion
This matchup between the Lakers and Pelicans holds significant implications for both teams’ standings in the NBA Cup group play. With key players sidelined due to injuries, fans can expect a closely contested game with plenty of opportunities for up-and-coming players to make their mark on the court.
The game is set to begin at 8:00 p.m. EST from New Orleans. Fans are encouraged to tune in and witness the exciting clash between these Western Conference rivals.
