1.) Feed Anthony Davis
Return games are always a big deal for the player in question, as emotions are running high, and the player is eager to put on a show. The Lakers should look to get the ball to Anthony Davis as much possible, and get him going early in an effort to temper a Pelican’s crowd that’ll be out for blood.
LeBron James has been a willing playmaker, leading the league in assists at 10.2 per game, so he shouldn’t have any qualms about getting Davis the ball as much as he wants. The Pelicans are one of the worst defenses in the league, as opponents are shooting at 54.9 eFG%, which is 27th in the league overall.
In addition, although their rim defense is ranked at a modest 16th, they allow the 3rd most attempts there, which also means good news for both Davis and James, who get a majority of their shots from the painted area.
But honestly, this game should be all about Davis and his return to a place he called home for seven seasons. His teammates need to do all they can to make sure that the Lakers not only win convincingly, but that Davis is the reason it happens.