LaMelo Ball erupted for 30 points, including a career‑tying nine three‑pointers, and dished out 11 assists as Charlotte crushed the Los Angeles Lakers 135‑117 on Thursday. His second‑half surge accounted for 27 points, turning the game into a showcase of his expanded shooting range and cementing his role as a game‑changing guard.
Second‑Half Explosion Powers Hornets
Ball’s 27 points after halftime came on a barrage of threes that shifted the momentum. The nine triples matched his personal best, while his playmaking sparked a 38‑point swing that left the Lakers scrambling. Charlotte’s tempo accelerated, resulting in a 57% field‑goal rate and a league‑leading 48% from beyond the arc.
Supporting Cast Amplifies Offense
Rookie forward Brandon Miller added 26 points, providing a strong inside option that complemented Ball’s perimeter attack. The Hornets forced 15 Lakers turnovers, converting many into fast‑break opportunities that highlighted their transition game.
Ball’s Evolution as a Three‑Point Threat
Since being drafted third overall in 2020, Ball has transitioned from flash passes to a balanced scorer. The nine‑three performance places him among elite young guards who combine high‑volume scoring with elite distribution, marking a strategic shift toward making the three‑point shot a cornerstone of his game.
Implications for the Lakers
The loss adds pressure on Los Angeles as defensive lapses against perimeter shooters became evident. Despite LeBron James’ 29 points, the Lakers struggled to contest Ball’s shooting, prompting coach Darvin Ham to stress tighter closeouts and disciplined rotations in upcoming games.
Future Outlook for Charlotte
With Ball’s shooting range expanding and his playmaking intact, the Hornets are positioned to push beyond the middle of the Eastern Conference. Continued investment in complementary talent could elevate Charlotte into a legitimate postseason contender.
Bottom Line
LaMelo Ball’s 30‑point, nine‑three‑pointer night was a statement performance that not only secured a dominant victory over the Lakers but also signaled the Hornets’ reliance on his evolving offensive arsenal. Opponents will need new defensive strategies as Ball continues to redefine his role as a primary scorer and facilitator.