LeBron James conceded this season is "definitely different" after the Los Angeles Lakers slumped to another defeat on Sunday.

The Lakers were humiliated 123-95 by the New Orleans Pelicans at home, giving up 23 turnovers for the game, which was the team's most this season.

James and Russell Westbrook combined for 14 turnovers, which was their worst return as team-mates.

The only positive was James scored 32 points, marking his 500th career game with 30 points or more.

But that was not enough to prevent a fifth defeat in six matches for the Lakers, with James recognising the need for a win to provide the catalyst for a turnaround.

"It all starts with a win. You learn from that win, the things you did well and what you didn't do well," he said.

"It always starts with that and how you can implement it into a game and a game situation.

"Obviously the last two losses have been... the Clippers game was right there [to win] and obviously we couldn't finish the game.

"And tonight against the Pelicans, who have been playing some good ball of late... this season is definitely different."

Next up for the 27-33 Lakers is a showdown with the Dallas Mavericks, who came from behind to stun the Golden State Warriors on Monday.