The Los Angeles Lakers will look to get their stuttering campaign back on track when they host the struggling Charlotte Hornets on Friday.
The visitors have won just one of their last ten games, and that makes the Lakers favorites. The Hornets already have been depleted of their talent, and this gives LA a chance to enter their next stretch on a winning note. Despite being injury-riddled, LaMelo Ball has been their bright spot averaging 23.4 points and 8.0 assists.
The Lakers were short-handed in their loss to the Sacramento Kings, with both Russell Westbrook and Austin Reaves sidelined due to injuries. However, the former is listed as probable and will most likely take the floor against the Hornets.
It’s a perfect opportunity for LA to get a win under their belt and prepare for a grueling away schedule that kickstarts on Christmas Day against the Dallas Mavericks. The win will also provide some much-needed confidence in the absence of their star.
Ahead of the much-awaited clash, here’s a look at the probable starting five, the injury report, and the predictions for both teams.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Lakers will be without the services of Anthony Davis. The big man sustained a foot injury that’s ruled him out indefinitely. He has been phenomenal for the side this season, averaging 27.4 points, 12.1 rebounds, and 2.6 assists. Earlier, his injury was deemed more serious than it appeared.
However, Los Angeles will have Westbrook, who was listed as probable along with LeBron James in ESPN’s injury report. The side might miss the services of Austin Reaves (ankle), who is questionable for the clash. Also missing out is Juan Toscano-Anderson (ankle).
Expect the Lakers to go with the same combination as the last game. Patrick Beverley (G), Dennis Schroder (G), Lonnie Walker IV (F), LeBron James (F), and Thomas Bryant (C) will likely be the starting five.
Charlotte Hornets Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Hornets will miss Cody Martin (knee). Both Terry Rozier (hip) and Dennis Smith Jr. (ankle) are questionable. The rest of the side is available to take the floor.
LaMelo Ball (G), Kelly Oubre Jr. (G), Gordon Hayward (F), P.J. Washington (F), and Mason Plumlee (L) will be the likely starters for Charlotte.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Charlotte Hornets Prediction
It’s a stacked Western Conference, and with 31 games done, the Lakers will need to grab wins if they intend to make the postseason. If the playoffs were today, they wouldn’t be on the list, and perhaps that mindset would help them when they approach a rather challenging away stretch.
The Hornets have been one of those teams struggling to hit consistency and find their groove, or in their case, some sting. They have been on a losing run, and barring the one win against Sacramento, it’s been a rough ride for the outfit.
They have the worst offensive rating in the NBA, and that’s a chink LA will look to expose. The latter’s defense has been inconsistent at best, and for someone as promising as Ball, a slight window is all he needs to cause some serious damage.
For now, all hopes are on the Lakers to have this in the bag. They have been impressive in patches, and this is one of those encounters that provides them with a chance to get their basics right. We’ll go with the Purple and Gold for this one.
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