The Los Angeles Lakers play the New Orleans Pelicans on March 3 at Crypto.com Arena. Los Angeles is 36-24 and sixth in the Western Conference. New Orleans is 19-43 and 13th in the standings.The Lakers have been solid at home with a 17-12 record. They are coming off a 128-104 win over Sacramento. The Pelicans have struggled on the road and are dealing with injuries again. Based on form and record, Los Angeles enters as the stronger side.
Los Angeles Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans Injury Report (March 3, 2026)
The Los Angeles Lakers are almost fully healthy. Maxi Kleber is listed as questionable with back soreness. Luka Doncic and LeBron James are available, along with the rest of the regular rotation.The New Orleans Pelicans will be without Zion Williamson. He injured his ankle in a March 1 loss to Utah and is sidelined. There are no other detailed updates listed, but the team’s record reflects ongoing roster and depth problems.
Los Angeles Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans Current Rosters
The Lakers’ roster includes Luka Doncic, LeBron James, Deandre Ayton, Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, Jarred Vanderbilt, Austin Reaves, Marcus Smart, Gabe Vincent, Jaxson Hayes, Jake LaRavia, Bronny James, Dalton Knecht, and Adou Thiero.The Pelicans’ roster features Zion Williamson, Saddiq Bey, Trey Murphy III, Dejounte Murray, Herb Jones, Jose Alvarado, Hunter Dickinson, Yves Missi, Derik Queen, Jeremiah Fears, Jordan Hawkins, and Naji Marshall. Former core players such as Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum are no longer with the team.
Los Angeles Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans Key Player Stats
Doncic leads the Lakers with 24.2 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 6.8 assists per game. LeBron James is averaging 19.4 points and 6.7 assists. Deandre Ayton is posting 8.9 points and 6.5 rebounds.Saddiq Bey leads the Pelicans with 21.1 points per game and 2.7 made three-pointers. Zion Williamson averaged 19.3 points before his injury. Trey Murphy III is scoring 16.7 points per game. Jeremiah Fears adds 11.4 points, and Derik Queen is averaging 10.9 points and 6.8 rebounds.
| Team | Top Scorer (PPG) | Rebound Leader (RPG) | Assist Leader (APG) |
| Los Angeles Lakers | Luka Doncic 24.2 | Deandre Ayton 6.5 | Doncic/LeBron 6.7-6.8 |
| New Orleans Pelicans | Saddiq Bey 21.1 | Derik Queen 6.8 | Multiple at 3.1-3.4 |
Los Angeles Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans Game Outlook (March 3, 2026)
Head-to-head results for this season are not available. The Lakers have moved the ball better in recent games, averaging 292 passes in their recent wins, which is higher than their season average.With Williamson out, the Pelicans will need more from Bey and Murphy. If the Lakers stay healthy and play at their usual pace, they are in a strong position at home.