Darvin Ham prepped the game vs. Pelicans with Brandon Ingram in mind

The Los Angeles Lakers must win the game against the Pelicans after the step back of losing to the Knicks on Sunday night. And while New Orleans will see the return of one of their stars, LA was prepped for that.

Los Angeles and New Orleans are tied with a 33-35 record for each team, and tonight will separate them depending on who gets the victory. While it was looking to be a more accessible game for the purple and gold, as Ingram was listed as questionable, his return would trouble the team.

Darvin Ham said the Lakers prepped for this game, assuming Brandon Ingram would play. Ingram has missed two straight with an ankle injury but has warmed up on the court after participating fully in a shootaround this morning.

The Pelicans will still be without Zion Williamson, but the Lakers are without LeBron James. Therefore, Anthony Davis must step up after his underperformances in the two previous games.

Coach Ham needs to give more playing minutes to Austin Reaves & Lonnie Walker

The Lakers coach Darvin Ham needs to give more playing time to Austin Reaves, and Lonnie Walker as Troy Brown Jr. and Malik Beasley have been underperforming.