The Charlotte Hornets demolished the Los Angeles Lakers 135‑117 on Friday, fuelled by LaMelo Ball’s 30 points and a scorching 53% three‑point shooting stretch in the third quarter. The victory lifts Charlotte to 15‑14, while the Lakers fall to 16‑13, exposing persistent defensive lapses that could jeopardize their playoff positioning in the Western Conference.
Hornets’ Offensive Explosion
LaMelo Ball Leads with 30 Points
LaMelo Ball dominated the second half, scoring 27 of his 30 points after halftime and tying his career best with nine three‑pointers. His aggressive playmaking opened driving lanes for teammates and forced the Lakers to chase a fast pace.
Third‑Quarter Shooting Surge
Charlotte’s perimeter attack peaked in the third quarter, converting 53% of its attempts (nine of 17) and posting a club‑record 30 points for a single period. The barrage turned a modest 10‑point halftime lead into a 20‑point advantage.
- 53% three‑point shooting in the third quarter
- 30 points scored in one period – highest of the season
- Team total of 45 bench points
Lakers’ Defensive Collapse
Perimeter and Paint Vulnerabilities
The Lakers surrendered 41 of 78 three‑point attempts (52.6%) and allowed 57 second‑chance points. Their inability to contest shots beyond the arc and protect the interior left Charlotte free to exploit open looks.
Key Players Struggle
LeBron James posted 24 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists but shot only 9‑of‑22 (41%). Anthony Davis logged just five minutes due to an ankle issue, limiting his impact on interior defense. Russell Westbrook added 12 points and 9 assists but could not generate the fast‑break opportunities needed to alleviate defensive pressure.
Impact on Playoff Race
Hornets Move Closer to Eighth Seed
The win improves Charlotte to 15‑14, keeping the team within a game of the coveted eighth seed. Their efficient three‑point shooting provides a potential template for the remaining schedule.
Lakers Slip to Seventh Seed
Los Angeles drops to 16‑13, slipping into the seventh seed and tightening the battle for the play‑in spots. The loss intensifies calls for roster adjustments, especially a rim‑protecting big man or accelerated development of wing defenders.
What This Means for the Rest of the Season
If the Lakers do not resolve their defensive lapses, they risk falling further in the standings despite veteran talent. Conversely, the Hornets’ offensive display suggests they can compete for a higher playoff seed if they maintain their shooting efficiency and balanced scoring attack.