Star Power Not Enough: Hornets Sting Lakers’ Defense in High-Scoring Shootout
Star Power Not Enough: Hornets Sting Lakers’ Defense in High-Scoring Shootout
By Antigravity Sports Desk
January 16, 2026
Game Summary
LOS ANGELES – In a season that promised dominance with the blockbuster pairing of Luka Dončić and LeBron James, the Los Angeles Lakers (24-15) found themselves searching for answers on the defensive end once again. On Thursday night at Crypto.com Arena, the Charlotte Hornets (14-26) exposed those cracks, raining down 20 three-pointers en route to a stunning 135-117 victory.
Despite a combined 68 points from Dončić and James, the Lakers could not contain Charlotte's balanced offensive attack, led by LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller, who turned a 13-point second-quarter deficit into a blowout win.
Key Takeaways & Analysis
1. The Defensive Collapse
The story of the night was undoubtedly the Lakers' inability to get stops when it mattered. After building a comfortable lead in the first half, the Lakers' perimeter defense evaporated.
- Perimeter Woes: The Hornets shot an incredible percentage from deep, hitting 20 three-pointers.
- Third Quarter Swing: The game flipped dramatically in the third quarter, where Charlotte outscored Los Angeles to build a 15-point lead they would never relinquish.
- Coach's Dilemma: With defensive rotations slow to cover ground, guard penetration by LaMelo Ball forced collapses that left shooters wide open.
2. Luka & LeBron: Offense is Not the Problem
If there were questions about the offensive synergy between the two superstars, they were answered – at least on the stat sheet.
- Luka Dončić: The Slovenian maestro was spectacular offensively, pouring in 39 points, dishing out assists, and controlling the tempo.
- LeBron James: In his 23rd season, James continues to defy Father Time, adding 29 points and orchestrating the offense alongside Luka.
- The Issue: While they scored with ease, the energy expended on offense seemed to leave the tank empty on the defensive end.
3. The Hornets' Young Core Shines
Charlotte came into Los Angeles as underdogs but played with playoff intensity.
- LaMelo Ball: A triple-double threat every night, Ball controlled the game with 30 points, 11 assists, and 6 rebounds.
- Brandon Miller: The sophomore sensation continues to rise, dropping 26 points and showcasing his elite scoring versatility.
- Miles Bridges: Added 25 points, punishing the Lakers in the paint and from mid-range.
- Kon Knueppel: The youngster chipped in with a crucial 19 points, proving the Hornets' depth was too much for LA.
Box Score Highlights
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Charlotte Hornets | 30 | 35 | 42 | 28 | 135 |
| Los Angeles Lakers | 32 | 30 | 25 | 30 | 117 |
Top Performers
Charlotte Hornets
- LaMelo Ball: 30 PTS, 11 AST, 6 REB
- Brandon Miller: 26 PTS, 5 AST
- Miles Bridges: 25 PTS, 8 REB
- Kon Knueppel: 19 PTS, 7 REB
Los Angeles Lakers
- Luka Dončić: 39 PTS
- LeBron James: 29 PTS
- Deandre Ayton: 8 REB (Struggled with foul trouble/impact)
What’s Next?
The Lakers have now lost four of their last five games, dropping to 24-15. With the Western Conference race tightening, they need to shore up their perimeter defense before their next matchup. The Hornets (14-26) will look to build on this momentum as they continue their road trip.
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