The Hornets have been a surprising package this season as they’re marching steadily towards the playoffs for the first time in five years. On the other hand, the Lakers, marred by several injuries, are looking less like the defending champions. 

Outside the Big Three of the EC, the Charlotte Hornets have done a tremendous job this season. They’ve had their share of bad luck with several key injuries, but their remaining roster has more or less covered for the loss. The Lakers, almost similarly, have shown some depth, especially in the game against the Nets. But are they good enough to beat a pumped-up Hornets?

Lakers vs Hornets: Injury updates and lineup prediction

For the Lake show, their star duo will remain sidelined for some more time. LeBron James (ankle injury) might make his return in the first week of May. Anthony Davis (calf injury) might come back within the next two weeks after his stretched resting time. A new addition to this fat list of injuries is small forward Alfonzo McKinnie who will sit out pertaining to safety protocols.

Probable lineup – Kyle Kuzma (SF), Markieff Morris (PF), Andre Drummond (C), Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (SG), and Dennis Schroder (PG)

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For the Hornets, star rookie LaMelo Ball (fractured right wrist) has been out since March 22 after he got injured against the Clippers. Veteran Gordon Hayward (foot injury) and Malik Monk (ankle) also soon joined the tally. Now, they have yet another star PJ Washington (ankle) listed as a day-to-day decision for Tuesday night.

Probable lineup – Miles Bridges (SF), Jalen McDaniels (PF), Cody Zeller (C), Terry Rozier (SG), and Devonté Graham (PG) 

Read also – When Will Lakers’ Anthony Davis return? NBA Insider Gives Promising Update

Who will win this match?

The Hornets are coming off a very close loss against the Hawks. The highlight of the game was the mind-boggling poster dunk from Miles Bridges over Clint Capela. Many claimed the dunk to be the best of the season, even better than Anthony Edwards’ show a month ago.

Another impressive name on the Hornets’ roster is that of Terry Rozier, who is averaging a career-high 20.3 points. Overall, it is the defense of the Hornets that can help their cause.

The Lakers, who blew out the Nets in their best victory of the season, lost to the Knicks on Monday. This inconsistency in their performance takes away the confidence from a side that has the size of Andre Drummond, the tenacity of Kyle Kuzma, the scoring ability of Dennis Schroder, and the off-the-bench power of Montrezl Harrell. It will not be an easy outing for them against the 27-win Hornets.

Prediction – We still think the Lakers are marginally better than the Hornets if PJ Washington sits out. The Lakers might hence win in a close game.