Lakers fall to Hornets in first game back from All-Star Break
The Lakers fell to the Hornets 100-97 in a close game in their first game back from the All-Star Break. The Purple and Gold struggled with turnovers, and it was an ugly loss.
Let’s break down why the Lakers fell and how they can adjust moving forward.
Austin Reaves’ ejection
Austin Reaves was ejected in the third quarter, which shifted the momentum of the game. Reaves believed he was fouled on a play, making a gesture and yelling at the official.
While he earned a technical, two technicals back to back seemed excessive. Players with a history of arguing, yelling at refs, or making dirty plays tend to have a longer leash before getting ejected. However, with Reaves not having that reputation, he was quickly thrown out of the game.
The Lakers offense suffered as a result, scoring only 18 points in the 3rd quarter.
Luka on his current slump:
“I’ve never missed this much time, so this is something new to me.”
WE ROCKIN’ WITH LUKA NO MATTER WHAT 💯 pic.twitter.com/zzNB0WRReF
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) February 20, 2025
Adjusting to playing with Luka Doncic
This was Luka Doncic’s third game with LA, and it’s clear they’re still adjusting the system around him. Doncic finished the game with 14 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists on 5-18 shooting and 1-9 from three.
Doncic had six turnovers and is still working back into rhythm, as this is only the third game he’s played since Christmas.
JJ Redick and the coaching staff need to work on implementing a scheme that will maximize Doncic and the roster around him.
