Los Angeles, CA – In a nail-biting finish, the Charlotte Hornets edged out the Los Angeles Lakers 108-105 on February 19, 2025, snapping the Lakers’ seven-game home win streak in a matchup that had fans on the edge of their seats. The game, rescheduled from January 9 due to devastating Los Angeles wildfires, showcased a gritty Hornets comeback and a dramatic ejection that shifted the tide.
- The Hornets overcame a 13-point deficit to defeat the Lakers 108-105 on February 19, 2025.
- Lakers guard Austin Reaves was ejected in the fourth quarter, sparking a Hornets rally.
- LaMelo Ball led Charlotte with 27 points, while LeBron James scored 24 for Los Angeles.
- The loss dropped the Lakers to 32-21, while the Hornets improved to 14-39.
- This game marked the second meeting of the 2024-25 season, with the Lakers winning the first 112-107 on January 27.
A Game of Momentum Swings
The Lakers started strong at Crypto.com Arena, building a 13-point lead in the third quarter behind LeBron James’ 24 points and nine assists. However, the Hornets, fueled by a raucous road effort, chipped away at the deficit. By the fourth quarter, the game tightened, with Charlotte trailing 86-83 with 5:37 left after a key three-pointer from Dorian Finney-Smith, recently traded to the Lakers.
The turning point came when Lakers guard Austin Reaves, averaging 21.5 points over his last 10 games, was ejected after a heated exchange with referees. His exit left Los Angeles scrambling, and Charlotte seized the moment, outscoring the Lakers 25-19 in the final frame.
Standout Performances
LaMelo Ball was the star for the Hornets, dropping 27 points, including a clutch 31-foot step-back three-pointer in the closing minutes. Miles Bridges added 18 points and 7.7 rebounds, reinforcing Charlotte’s Eastern Conference-leading 45.7 rebounds per game. For the Lakers, James’ effort was overshadowed by a missed game-tying shot at the buzzer, while Luka Doncic struggled, shooting 5-for-18 for 14 points.
- The Hornets shot 43.0% from the field, below the Lakers’ defensive average of 46.7%.
- Los Angeles made 12.3 three-pointers, just shy of Charlotte’s 13.2 allowed per game.
- Turnovers plagued the Lakers, with 18 leading to 10 Hornets points.
Context of the Rescheduled Clash
Originally set for January 9, this game was postponed due to wildfires ravaging Los Angeles, which even destroyed Lakers coach JJ Redick’s home. Rescheduled for February 19, it became the first of a back-to-back for the Lakers, who face the Portland Trail Blazers next. The Hornets, meanwhile, snapped a nine-out-of-ten losing streak, boosting morale for their struggling 14-39 season.
Quote from Hornets Coach Charles Lee:
“We showed heart tonight. Coming into LA and beating a team like the Lakers on their home floor is huge for us.”
Game Statistics: Hornets vs. Lakers (Feb 19, 2025)
| Team | Points | FG% | 3PT Made | Rebounds | Assists | Turnovers |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hornets | 108 | 43.0% | 10 | 45 | 24 | 12 |
| Lakers | 105 | 46.7% | 12 | 42 | 28 | 18 |
The Hornets’ upset victory over the Lakers on February 19, 2025, highlights the unpredictability of the NBA season, even for teams at opposite ends of the standings. With standout plays, a dramatic ejection, and a resilient comeback, this game will linger in fans’ minds. Stay informed on the Hornets vs. Lakers rivalry and the latest NBA action by following updates on scores, stats, and schedules—because in basketball, every night can bring a new headline!
