Hornets vs Lakers Prediction 28 January 2025

Can the Los Angeles Lakers secure their spot in the NBA Western Conference playoffs? The visitors are considered clear favorites against the Charlotte Hornets. The hosts are clear underdogs in the East, but they should not be underestimated in the match that will take place at the "Spectrum Center." Therefore, we will explore different options to make the prediction optimal.

Head-to-head

Over a span of 39 head-to-head games, the Los Angeles Lakers hold the advantage with 23 wins. Last season, the team defeated Charlotte twice. At home, they had a significant advantage (133:112), while on the road, it was a real battle (124:118). It's worth noting that the Hornets have not been able to beat Los Angeles in four consecutive head-to-head meetings.

Charlotte Hornets

The second half of January is clearly going well for Charlotte. In their last six games, they have secured four victories. However, the team lost to a stronger Memphis (120:132) and fell just five points short against Portland (97:102). Nevertheless, they quickly ended the losing streak with a victory over the New Orleans Pelicans (123:92). They won each quarter by a margin of at least six points. All 11 players who took to the court scored at least three points. The most productive player was LaMelo Ball (25 points). On one hand, the Pelicans were missing several players, including Brandon Ingram. But the Hornets have even more absences. In the upcoming match, it is highly likely that Brandon Miller, Tre Mann, Mark and Grant Williams, and Cody Martin will not play, all of whom average at least eight points per season.

Los Angeles Lakers

Los Angeles has moved up to fifth place in the West. However, it's too early to relax, as several teams are close behind with only slightly lower win percentages. Nonetheless, in their last six games, the Lakers only lost to the Clippers (102:116). Since then, they have secured three victories, including against the Boston Celtics (117:96). Recently, Los Angeles relatively easily dealt with the Golden State Warriors in San Francisco (118:108). Once again, Anthony Davis was the best player for the Lakers (36 points, 13 rebounds). But LeBron James also recorded a double-double (25 points, 12 assists). It should be noted that Rui Hachimura did not participate in the last game and may miss the next match as well. LeBron James' participation is also in question.

Match Prediction

The favorite for the upcoming match is the Los Angeles Lakers. However, much will depend on LeBron James' participation. He excels not only as a scorer but also as an orchestrator of attacks. Nevertheless, Anthony Davis should still be considered the main star. Without this duo, it's unlikely that the Lakers' game will be effective. Especially since their opponent will be Charlotte, which has shown good defensive performances in recent matches. Therefore, the most suitable bet would be total under 219.5, which has played out in 6 of the last 7 home games for the Hornets.