Lakers Cruise Past Pelicans 133–89, Into Tournament Final

LeBron James (23) of the Los Angeles Lakers drives in for a layup against the New Orleans Pelicans in the first half of the West semifinal game of the inaugural NBA In-Season Tournament in Las Vegas on on Dec. 7, 2023. Kyle Terada/USA TODAY Sports via Field Level Media

LeBron James recorded 30 points and eight assists to lead the Los Angeles Lakers to a 133–89 semifinal victory over the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday night, Dec. 7, in Las Vegas to reach the championship game of the NBA’s in-season tournament.

The Lakers will face the Indiana Pacers in Saturday’s title game. The Pacers defeated the Milwaukee Bucks 128–119 in Thursday’s other semifinal.