Charlotte (13-39) at LA Lakers (32-20)
- When: Feb 19 2025, 10:00 PM
- Where: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA, USA
- TV: SportsNet LA
Game Preview
Lakers Favored by 12.5 | Total Set at 228.5
The Los Angeles Lakers return home looking to reset their momentum after back-to-back road losses, while the Charlotte Hornets attempt to build off a rare victory. With the Lakers heavily favored, this matchup presents a solid betting opportunity with angles on both the spread and the total.
Los Angeles Lakers Outlook
The Lakers (29-23) are entering a stretch where they will play nine straight games in California, including seven at home. However, wildfires in the Los Angeles area have created an unsettling backdrop, putting the game’s status in some uncertainty.
Before their recent road losses to Houston and Dallas, the Lakers had been playing their best basketball of the season, winning seven of nine games. Their offense has been clicking, but their recent struggles against the Mavericks highlighted concerns about energy levels and consistency.
LeBron James, who had 18 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists in Dallas, voiced his frustration about losing momentum. The Lakers were outworked by a Mavericks squad missing Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving, and head coach JJ Redick acknowledged that his team looked fatigued.
Austin Reaves has been a bright spot, averaging 22.6 points and 9.1 assists over his past seven games. However, his playmaking was limited in Dallas, where he managed only one assist. With Reaves handling a bigger offensive load, his production will be crucial in helping the Lakers bounce back.
Despite the recent setbacks, Los Angeles is dominant at home, and facing a struggling Charlotte team should provide a great opportunity to get back in the win column.
Charlotte Hornets Outlook
The Hornets (11-40) ended their miserable 10-game losing streak with a much-needed 115-104 win over Phoenix on Tuesday. LaMelo Ball led the charge with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and seven assists, while Miles Bridges chipped in 21 points.
The win was far from pretty, as Charlotte shot just 38.8% from the field. However, they capitalized at the free-throw line, hitting a season-best 26-of-29 attempts. The Hornets also benefited from having their expected starting five available for only the third time this season.
Head coach Charles Lee emphasized that the team needs to stack good performances together to turn things around. However, consistency has been a major issue, as Charlotte had lost 18 of 19 games before their win over the Suns.
The Hornets are just 2-14 on the road this season, making this matchup against the Lakers a daunting task. They have struggled defensively, ranking near the bottom of the league in defensive efficiency, which is a major concern against a Lakers team capable of scoring in bunches at home.
One interesting storyline is LaMelo Ball’s return to Los Angeles, where he has averaged 23.6 points and 8.6 rebounds in five career games against the Lakers. If Charlotte is to stay competitive, they will need a standout performance from their franchise star.
Betting Predictions & Props
Spread Pick: Lakers -12.5
While this is a big number, the Hornets have been one of the worst road teams in the NBA. The Lakers are returning home and will be motivated to correct their recent struggles. With Charlotte’s inconsistent play, Los Angeles should control this game from start to finish.
Total Pick: Under 228.5
Charlotte’s offensive struggles on the road combined with the Lakers’ recent inconsistencies make the under an appealing bet. The Lakers should tighten up defensively after their sloppy performance in Dallas, while the Hornets may have difficulty keeping up offensively.
Prop Bets to Consider:
Austin Reaves Over 6.5 Assists – Reaves has been a key playmaker, and against a weak Charlotte defense, he should have plenty of opportunities to rack up assists.
LaMelo Ball Points Over 24.5 – Ball thrives in matchups against his hometown team and will likely look to put on a show.
Lakers -7.5 First Half Spread – Expect a fast start from Los Angeles after their recent struggles.
The Lakers are in a prime bounce-back spot, while the Hornets continue to struggle on the road. Expect Los Angeles to take care of business and cover the spread while keeping the total under.
- NBA Odds source: Bovada Sportsbook
