After just under a week off for the All-Star break, 2024-25 NBA regular season action returns on Thursday, February 20th. It’s a standalone game on Thursday that will see the Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Charlotte Hornets at Crypto.com Arena. It’s certainly an interesting matchup after the recently rescinded trade between the two clubs, and we have you covered with a full game preview and best bet below!
Also, make sure to head over to our NBA Tips regularly, as we’ll be providing free tips for all the major slates for each and every week of the 2024-25 season!
NBA Betting Tips: Thursday, February 20th 2025
Charlotte Hornets at Los Angeles Lakers (2:00pm AEDT)
The Lakers return from the All-Star break looking to continue their strong form as they host the struggling Hornets in a standalone game on Thursday. This will be the first game for both teams since the break, which means all eyes will be on how they respond after the layoff. Los Angeles has been one of the best teams in the Western Conference, currently sitting fifth with a 32-20 record, including an impressive 19-6 mark at home. Meanwhile, Charlotte has endured a difficult season, sitting second-last in the East with a 13-39 record, including just four wins in 23 road games. The Lakers won the only other meeting between these teams this season, defeating the Hornets 112-107 in Charlotte on January 27th. That result extended their winning streak against Charlotte to four games.
This matchup also carries extra intrigue due to the rescinded trade involving Mark Williams and Dalton Knecht. The deal, which would have sent Williams to Los Angeles and Knecht to Charlotte, fell through, creating an awkward situation for both players. Knecht needed time to process what happened but returned to action in the Lakers' last game before the break, scoring 10 points in 17 minutes against the Jazz. Williams, on the other hand, was vocal about not wanting to play for the Hornets anymore, but the team has since reintegrated him into the lineup, and he is now listed as probable for this game. With emotions running high, it will be interesting to see if this situation has any impact on how the game plays out.
Form-wise, the Lakers enter this game in much better shape. Despite losing to the Jazz in their last outing, they have won 12 of their past 15 games and have been one of the hottest teams in the league over the past month. Their home-court advantage has also been a key factor in their success, with a 19-6 record at Crypto.com Arena. Charlotte, on the other hand, has won just two of its last 13 games, highlighting the ongoing struggles the team has faced. Their road record has been particularly poor, with just four wins away from home all season.
LeBron James missed the All-Star Game due to ankle soreness, but that was more of a precautionary move, and he should be ready to go on Thursday. Additionally, Luka Doncic has had more time to adjust to his new surroundings following his trade from the Mavericks, which could lead to increased minutes and productivity. With their star power, superior form, and home-court advantage, the Lakers are in an excellent position to secure a comfortable win. Given the Hornets' struggles and the Lakers' dominance in recent meetings, Los Angeles should continue its winning streak against Charlotte without much trouble.
Lakers -12
$1.90 (1.5 Units)
