The Los Angeles Lakers host the Charlotte Hornets at Crypto.com Arena on Thursday, January 15, at 10:30 PM ET, with both teams dealing with injuries that could impact rotations and strategy.
Los Angeles (24-14) is coming off a 141-116 win over Atlanta, while Charlotte (14-26) lost 109-117 to the Clippers in their most recent outing.
For the Hornets, four players are confirmed out: Mason Plumlee (right groin surgery), Antonio Reeves (G League, two-way), Liam McNeeley (G League assignment), and KJ Simpson (G League, two-way). Collin Sexton is listed as questionable with left hamstring soreness, while Moussa Diabate remains questionable with right hip soreness.
The Lakers enter the game with Austin Reaves out due to a left calf strain and Adou Thiero sidelined with a right MCL sprain. Jaxson Hayes is questionable with left hamstring soreness.
Charlotte’s key scorers are shouldering extra responsibility amid the injuries. LaMelo Ball leads the team with 20.1 points and 7.7 assists per game, while Miles Bridges averages 19.5 points and 6.4 rebounds. Brandon Miller contributes 19.1 points per contest.
Los Angeles maintains more stability despite Reaves being sidelined. Luka Doncic is averaging 33.4 points, 8.8 assists, and 7.9 rebounds, while LeBron James adds 22.4 points and 6.9 rebounds. Deandre Ayton and Rui Hachimura provide support in scoring and interior defense, helping offset the questionable status of Hayes.
The Lakers are currently fifth in the Western Conference, while the Hornets remain near the bottom of the Eastern standings at 12th.
