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The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Charlotte Hornets tonight. It will be an exciting battle as the current face of the league, LeBron James, takes on LaMelo Ball, who could take over from him once he retires. This is their first matchup of the season.

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Date & Time: March 1, 2021, 8:30pm ET

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Venue: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles, California

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Preview | Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers are coming off a three-game winning streak. They entered the All-Star break with two defeats in a row and desperately needed a break. Since returning, they have looked much better and a lot livelier too. In Anthony Davis’ absence, LeBron is continuing to put in the extra effort to lead them and it is working so far.

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The Lakers have multiple absentees for tonight’s game. Alex Caruso (concussion), Kostas Antetokounmpo, and Marc Gasol (COVID-19 protocol) are all out for the game along with AD. LeBron James and Markieff Morris are listed as questionable but are likely to play.

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USA Today via Reuters

Starting 5 for the Lakers

Guard – Dennis Schroder

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Guard – Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Forward – LeBron James 

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Forward – Markieff Morris 

Center – Damian Jones

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Preview | Charlotte Hornets

The Hornets had their four-game winning streak broken last night. But they will hope to turn it around and bounce back tonight. They have outdone all expectations so far and hold the fifth seed in the East currently. LaMelo Ball might be stealing all headlines, but one cannot ignore the important contributions from Gordon Hayward and Terry Rozier in their success.

In contrast to the Lakers’ injury woes, the Hornets enter the game with a fully fit team. Coach James Borrego will be delighted to have his full strength roster to compete against a top team like the Lakers.

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USA Today via Reuters

Starting 5 for the Hornets

Guard – LaMelo Ball

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Guard  – Terry Rozier

Forward – Gordon Hayward

Forward – P.J. Washington 

Center – Cody Zeller

Predictions | Lakers vs Hornets

Although the Lakers come in as favorites, it will be foolish to underestimate the opposition. The Hornets have taken down some big teams like the Bucks, Nets, and the Suns. It won’t be a stroll in the park for the Lakers, but LeBron should be able to lead his team past the Hornets. They will have to continue their defensive effort in order to come away with the win or they risk an upset.

ALSO READ – Anthony Davis Injury Update: What is The Latest News on the Lakers’ Star’s Return?

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Written by

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Aaron Mathew

1,689 Articles

Aaron Mathew is a sports analyst at EssentiallySports. A graduate in Mass Media from Xavier’s College, Aaron has been a part of EssentiallySports since May 2020 where he covers both NBA and NCAA basketball news, and has also covered NBA 2K. In the past, Aaron has worked at the Sports Desk of Mumbai Mirror. He has also volunteered for organisations such as 'AkshayaShakti Welfare Association' and 'Reviving The Rivers'. His favorite player is, and will always remain, Kobe Bryant.

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