The Hornets have become even less potent since the trade of top scorer Terry Rozier, with the latest losing streak now at seven, and the offense barely scoring 100 ppg the last four outings. Recent trade add Kyle Lowry hasn't even featured yet and won't be, if ever at all for Charlotte, until after the trade deadline later this week. Meanwhile this might be a night that Darvin ham is tempted to rest LeBron and AD, even after they featured on Saturday at MSG, with big games at home vs. the Nuggets and Pelicans later this week. LA's last two games on this road trip have featured much-improved defense and similar scorelines, holding both the Celtics and Knicks to 105. Play Lakers-Hornets "Under"

D'Angelo Russell is hitting his stride since being back in the starting lineup. His average PRA is up to 32.8 in those 12 games and the over is 9-3. His increased role is coinciding with improved play and a good showcase for trade bait. If the Lakers start strong and perform well early, he should see continued minutes to show his trade value. And even if they are playing from behind, Russell should still see heavy minutes.

This is a bet on scratches from either LeBron James or Anthony Davis. Even better if both end up sitting. The Lakers are coming off two big wins against the Celtics and Knicks where both stars played heavy minutes. With both listed as GTD, I like my chances that at least one of them rests. Austin Reaves averages 23 points and rebounds when LeBron sits and 24 without AD. He has also surpassed this total against Charlotte in their previous two matchups.