Anthony Davis turned in a triple-double, D’Angelo Russell poured in 28 points and LeBron James posted 26 points as the Los Angeles Lakers beat the host Charlotte Hornets 124-118 for their third victory in a row Monday night.
Davis provided 26 points, 15 rebounds, 11 assists and a key blocked shot in the final minute as the Lakers, who were in control for most of the game, held on to complete a 4-2 road trip. Christian Wood had 11 points off the bench.
Charlotte is on an eight-game losing streak after another home loss — the second in as many nights — despite Miles Bridges pumping in 41 points. Brandon Miller kept up his offensive production with 33 points, while P.J. Washington’s 15 points and Bryce McGowen’s 10 points were boosts in bench scoring.
The Hornets didn’t look like they would be able to sustain a run until Miller racked up nine points in a span of less than two minutes, allowing Charlotte to close within 117-113 by the two-minute mark.
James responded by converting a three-point play, but 22 seconds later Bridges followed suit. Trailing 120-116, the Hornets had a chance to apply more pressure, but Davis blocked Bridges’ 3-point attempt and Reaves sank two free throws at the other end.
The Hornets, who have gone with so many lineup changes and different combinations, gave rookie guard Leaky Black his first NBA start.
The Lakers had their way offensively for most of the game despite perimeter shooting struggles. They shot 56.2 percent from the field despite going just 8-for-34 on 3-point attempts.
Charlotte’s defensive shortcomings were evident right away. Los Angeles made 14 of its first 22 shots from 2-point range.
Bridges shot 16-for-26 from the field and 5-for-10 on 3-point attempts.
The Lakers outscored the Hornets 37-29 in each of the first two quarters for a 74-58 halftime lead.
–Field Level Media
