LeBron James noted afterward that they "have to play close-to-perfect basketball" in order to win because "that's the way our team is constructed." It was harsh yet timely criticism of his roster, a nudge to the front office to make improvements ahead of the trade deadline.

Jan 21, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward Rui Hachimura (28) drives past Washington Wizards forward Kyle Kuzma (33) in the second half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images / Jayne Kamin-Oncea-Imagn Images

The Lakers are currently 9-12 on the road with a point differential of -1, while the Hornets have a 3-7 record in their last ten games at home.

Analyzing Monday’s Los Angeles Lakers at Charlotte Hornets odds and lines, with NBA expert picks, predictions and best bets.

SportsLine's model has simulated the Charlotte Hornets vs. Los Angeles Lakers matchup 10,000 times and revealed its NBA picks for Monday

This mock trade would give the Lakers not only a serviceable starting center next to Anthony Davis, but one who could be a game-changer.

Jarred Vanderbilt makes a small, but important impact in his season debut as the Lakers also benefit from a big game from Anthony Davis to defeat the Warriors.

When is Los Angeles Lakers vs. Charlotte Hornets? Los Angeles Lakers vs. Charlotte Hornets in the NBA starts at 7 p.m. ET on Jan. 27. This game takes place at Spectrum Center in C