Doncic and James combine for 68 points but fall short, LaMelo Ball scores 30 with nine three-pointers as Hornets dominate Lakers

On January 16th, in the 25-26 NBA regular season, the Hornets secured a 135-117 victory over the Lakers. LaMelo Ball led with 30 points, 6 boards, and 11 assists including nine three-pointers; Doncic added 39 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists; James posted 29 points, 9 rebounds, and 6 assists.

Statistical Summary

Lakers: Doncic with 39 points, 3 rebounds, 4 assists; James scored 29 points, grabbed 9 rebounds, and dished out 6 assists; LaRavia contributed 18 points; Ayton added 12 points and 6 rebounds.

Hornets: LaMelo Ball tallied 30 points, 6 rebounds, and 11 assists; Bridges scored 25 points, collected 8 rebounds, and had 4 assists; Knipe added 19 points, 7 rebounds, and 4 assists; Miller contributed 26 points and 5 assists.

Game Progression

Hornets star Bridges opened the scoring with a three-pointer, but the Lakers quickly responded with an outburst from beyond the arc, featuring shots from James, Smart, Doncic, and LaRavia, building a 12-point lead. The Hornets countered with diversified offense to spark a comeback, yet Doncic’s consecutive three-pointers helped the Lakers maintain control. At the end of the first quarter, the Lakers led 39-30. In the second quarter, the Hornets found their rhythm earlier; after Bridges slammed a dunk, the score was tied 43-43. Then the Hornets went on a scoring run, and when Diabate hit a basket, they held an 8-point lead. The Lakers pushed back, but the Hornets held firm, finishing the half with Knipe’s buzzer-beating three-pointer giving them a 9-point advantage.

After the break, the Hornets started strong with a scoring surge, as Knipe nailed another three-pointer, extending their lead to 15 points. The Lakers responded swiftly with a scoring run led by Doncic and James; Doncic’s floater cut the deficit to 6 points. Toward the end of the third quarter, both teams exchanged baskets, but Doncic left the court due to a back issue. After three quarters, the Hornets led by 11 points. Notably, in the third quarter alone, the Hornets scored 40 points and the Lakers 38, combining for 78 points. In the final quarter, Doncic returned, and the teams continued trading points. After Knipe’s layup, the Hornets led by 13. The Lakers then pushed for a comeback, but Ball’s consecutive three-pointers secured the Hornets’ victory.

Starting Lineups

Lakers: Doncic, James, Ayton, Smart, LaRavia

Hornets: Ball, Bridges, Miller, Knipe, Diabate