The LA Lakers will face the Charlotte Hornets on February 5 (Monday) at Spectrum Center. Even though LeBron James and Anthony Davis are out, the Lakers will still be fan favorites for this match. However, ahead of the match, James made it clear that they will not take the Hornets for granted as they could pose a challenge to LA. This will be the second meeting between the two teams this season, with the Lakers winning the first one on December 29, where Davis scored 26 points. LA also leads the head-to-head games 41–15 in the regular season.
Preview
At this point, it is all about winning for the Lakers as every victory will take them one step closer to a better ending. With 31 games left in the regular season, it wouldn’t be easy for them as they look to reach the playoffs. The Lakers will be without Jarred Vanderbilt, who is expected to miss the remainder of the season due to right foot soreness. Vanderbilt’s absence will open up more opportunities for Rui Hachimura, meaning Taurean Prince is coming off the bench to provide more spark on offense.
Meanwhile, the Hornets have struggled this season, and injuries to LaMelo Ball and Gordon Hayward have made them questionable for the upcoming contest. Both the players did not fare well against the Indiana Pacers. However, if they take inspiration from LA, which defeated the formidable Boston Celtics without their superstars James and Davis, this game could be a great one.
Starting lineup
Anthony Davis and LeBron James are still listed as questionable. Vanderbilt, Cam Reddish and Gabe Vincent are out. The Lakers are expected to go with the same lineup as they did against the Knicks. D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reeves, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura and Anthony Davis are likely to be in the starting five against the Hornets.
Meanwhile, the Hornets have yet to release their updated injury report. But if Ball and Hayward miss the game, the Hornets will go with Ish Smith, Brandon Miller, Miles Bridges, Bryce McGowens and Nick Richards.
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Prediction
The Hornets are underdogs in this matchup and in addition to losing their two stars, they are also struggling with fatigue and inconsistency. Meanwhile, the Lakers are brimming with confidence and a win would also give them a good place in the standings. The LA are the favorites to win this matchup.
