The first day of the NBA play-in tournament delivered some exciting results, as the Los Angeles Lakers secured their spot in the playoffs by defeating the New Orleans Pelicans. LeBron James led the Lakers to a 110-106 victory, almost reaching a triple-double with 23 points, nine rebounds, and nine assists. The Pelicans, led by Zion Williamson’s 40-point performance, will have to face the Sacramento Kings to secure the last spot in the Western Conference playoffs.
In another game, the Sacramento Kings eliminated the Golden State Warriors with a dominant 118-94 win. The Warriors’ turbulent season may signal a changing of the guard for the legendary franchise, which has won four championships under coach Steve Kerr.
The Kings will now face the Pelicans in a do-or-die matchup to determine the final playoff spot in the West. The winner will advance to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round of the playoffs. Stay tuned for more exciting NBA action on Star+!