I have no idea how the rest of the Hornets247 crew let me preview and recap this game given that I’m originally from Los Angeles and still have lots of Laker love in my heart. But don’t worry, I have tons of Hornets (Pelicans?) love as well! And in an effort to stay neutral, I’ll be wearing regular clothes to the game. I might be inviting trouble, but feel free to show me your best trash talk on twitter @nolajake.
As for the actual game, the Hornets are looking to make it two straight wins tonight. Let’s jump right into it…
3 Things to Watch For
Pace
Under Mike D’Antoni the Lakers are the second fastest team in the league. The Hornets on the other hand are dead last. To win, the Hornets need to keep this game close at all times (or just race out to a huge lead and never look back, but let’s be realistic) and prevent the Lakers from going scoring runs. To do that, the team needs to control the pace and stop the Lakers from getting out in transition.
Turnovers
With such a young team this has been a problem all season and it ties in with the point above. Turnovers gift the opposition a free possession. In a game that is actually winnable for the Hornets, they need to avoid empty trips on offense that lead to easy points for the Lakers. Rivers and Vasquez need to make good passes and not lose the ball when they drive; Lopez and Aminu need to do a better job of holding onto the ball in the paint.
Attack
The Hornets can’t be hesitant to attack while on offense. I like Darius Morris because he went to my high school, but he’s lucky to be getting significant NBA minutes. As a weak defender, Monty needs to have Vasquez run the pick and roll to create kickout opportunities and to attack the rim. I’ve watched most of the Lakers’ games this season and at times people look completely lost on defense. There will be lanes for cutters and slow defensive rotations. The Hornets need to take advantage of these defensive mistakes.
Lagniappe to Watch For
Kobe Bryant
Just 13 points points shy of becoming the 5th player ever to reach 30,000 for his career, don’t be shocked if Kobe goes off tonight. 50+ points isn’t out of the question. However, it’s worth noting that the Lakers are 1-7 when Kobe scores over 30 points. So maybe it’s a good thing?
Let us know what you’re looking for in the comments below
12 responses to “Game On: Lakers @ Hornets”
Looking forward to the game tonight. I again happen to have an extra ticket if anyone is interested. Section 106 row 5 lower bowl. Good seats… Text or call me at 757 358 1963. Did I mention no charge unless ya wanted to buy me a beer? Lol. Can’t believe how hard it is to even give tickets away
I would happily join you but I’m in North Carolina stationed at fort bragg. I will go to the game if they play the bobcats here though
I’m still going to say Hornets win a close one, though it will be a more high scoring one. Kobe hits the 13 point at the line in the 2nd quarter.
Though the pregame song reminds me of an old episode of Beavis and Butthead lol
Is it just me or is this game not on tv? Also if there is anyone looking to give away say 2 more tickets you can lay them off on me.
Balcony ok?
It’s on TV.
Hornets win by two via hack-a-howard.
Side Note:
I refuse to believe this article and if its true we’re much worse off than I thought. But does it mean we’ll chase Al Jefferson in the off season?
Geaux Pelicans… Just trying it on
Ok Gang! League pass is fired up! I’m sorry neighbors for the noise, but it’s time to GET LOUD!!!
Alright, who forgot to tell Lance he wasn’t supposed to outscore both the rest of the Hornet’s bench and the entire Laker’s bench in the 1st Half?
Oh yeah! That’s what I forgot to do today! Eh too late now. lol
*sitcom audience chant* Durtcizzle!