Lakers vs Hornets: Preview, prediction and analysis

Tonight’s Lakers vs Hornets game is another chance to end another losing streak.

Beating the 76ers a few nights ago ended an eight-game skid. After that, Los Angeles was put in a tough spot against the defending champs and failed to get a win.

Although they hung in there with Cleveland, you don’t get a win for best effort.

Against Charlotte, the Lakers still have their work cut out for them. Kemba Walker is an elite point guard who will not be easy to match up against.

Also, the Lakers have to be sure they can dominate the boards. Translating that kind of performance into points is where they’ve also struggled.

Without strong defense, offensive flashiness and consistency doesn’t mean much.

They must stop not just Walker, but also Michael Kidd-Gilchrist.

In regards to other things under their control, the Lakers have to be aggressive. Defending home court is one thing, but getting wins on the road against playoff caliber teams requires the ability to grind it out.

It’s where the Cavs outlasted them, and it’s where the Hornets pose the biggest threat.

Following their loss to Cleveland, the Lakers are in danger of tumbling down another detrimental losing streak. Their early start to the season brought much unprecedented success — they have to get back to winning for it to mean something.

If for nothing else, it’s to keep pace with Portland. Right now, the Trail Blazers hold the keys to the last playoff spot.

Despite the massive losing streak, Los Angeles is just two and a half games behind them. Getting back into the post-season conversation is where this team belongs.

But as it is in most situations, what it comes down to for them is staying healthy.

Without D’Angelo Russell and Nick Young, this team has shown that they’re good — but not good enough.

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