The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting New Orleans Pelicans, 118-109, at Staples Center on Tuesday.

While Los Angeles led for 45 minutes of this 48-minute game, it stayed close throughout. In fact, there were 10 lead changes in total with Los Angeles holding a double-digit lead for only a handful of minutes. With that said, the Lakers held the lead for the entirety of the fourth quarter. The Lakers ended up recording 12 blocks to the Pelicans two blocks. In addition, Los Angeles won the offensive rebounding battle, 14-6, and the turnover differential, 19-16.

The Pelicans (25-33) were led by Brandon Ingram, who tallied 34 points, seven rebounds, four assists and two steals. Zion Williamson collected 29 points, six rebounds and three assists. Jrue Holiday generated 11 points, five rebounds, nine assists and two steals. Lonzo Ball amassed 10 points, eight rebounds and eight assists.

The Lakers (44-12) were led by LeBron James and his season-high 40 points, eight rebounds and six assists. Anthony Davis totaled 21 points, 14 rebounds, three assists and six blocks. Danny Green accrued 17 points, five rebounds and four assists. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope led the bench with 15 points and two steals.

On deck for Los Angeles is a road matchup versus the Golden State Warriors on Thursday. As for New Orleans, they're off until Friday when they play host to the Cleveland Cavaliers.