Big Night for Doncic Lifts the Lakers Past the Hornets
The Los Angeles Lakers relied on a focused attack in the third quarter to pull away from the Charlotte Hornets, securing a 121-111 victory that extended their recent winning streak. Leading the charge was Luka Doncic, who poured in 38 points, anchoring a balanced attack that found rhythm at just the right moment and kept LA in control late.
From the opening tip, the game unfolded with the physical pace and intensity fans expect in a cross-conference matchup. The Hornets played a scrappy, competitive brand of basketball, testing the Lakers with multiple runs. But as the clock ticked toward the third, the Lakers’ offense clicked in a way that showcased their depth and Doncic’s all-around brilliance.
The Third Quarter: A Turning Point
During a pivotal third period, Rui Hachimura stepped forward, delivering 13 of his 21 points in the frame to help the Lakers seize momentum. His efficient scoring complemented Doncic’s production, and the two created enough separation to withstand late push by Charlotte.
Hachimura’s timely baskets came at moments when the Hornets threatened to close the gap, and his aggressiveness seemed to light a spark for the entire lineup. The Lakers benefited from a burst of energy on both ends of the floor, with crisp ball movement and decisive execution in transition. It was a quarter that felt like a team turning a corner, one that had the arena recognizing the kind of contributions that win games in December, not just early-season slates.
Doncic’s All-Around Game and the Lakers’ Depth
While Doncic’s 38 points stole headlines, it was the full spectrum of his impact that defined the win. He mixed in efficient shooting with a handful of tough baskets in the lane, while also orchestrating plays for teammates and finding seams in the Hornets’ defense. The result was a Lakers offense that looked practiced and purposeful, converting possessions at crucial moments and avoiding droughts that could have made the matchup close late.
LA’s depth was on display as well. Beyond Hachimura’s third-quarter surge, secondary contributors provided timely scoring, creating an environment where no one player needed to shoulder the entire load. The Lakers’ defense, meanwhile, held the Hornets in check during the decisive stretch, forcing key turnovers and transitions that fed the fastbreak and stretched the lead when it mattered most.
What This Win Means for the Lakers
The victory marks the Lakers’ sixth win in their last seven games, a stretch that has solidified their standing in a busy portion of the schedule. The team has shown resilience and a capacity to adjust on the fly, qualities that coaches emphasize as hallmarks of championship-caliber teams. With Doncic heating up and Hachimura delivering consistent scoring when called upon, the Lakers appear to be building momentum at a pivotal point in the season.
For the Hornets, the loss was a reminder of the challenges they face in competing against higher-caliber teams on the road. Still, the effort was commendable, and the young core gained valuable experience against an elite player in Doncic and a veteran-laden supporting cast that can deal with adversity as the campaign progresses.
Looking Ahead
As the schedule tightens, the Lakers will look to sustain this level of play. Preserving the energy from their third-quarter surge and maintaining ball security will be crucial as they face a slate of tough opponents. For Doncic, the night reinforces his status as a go-to scorer and a willing passer, capable of taking over when teammates deserve a spotlight and also when defensive attention is dialed up against him.
Fans can expect the Lakers to continue leveraging their depth and the dynamic timing of their core players, with the confidence earned from a late-game push translating into upcoming tests on the road and at home.
