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Lakers Struggle Without LeBron, Face Hornets in Early Matchup
11 Nov
Summary
- Lakers missing 21-time All-NBA star LeBron James
- Hornets also without All-Star LaMelo Ball and Brandon Miller
- Lakers starting lineup includes Luka Doncic, Marcus Smart, Deandre Ayton

As of November 11th, 2025, the Los Angeles Lakers are set to take on the Charlotte Hornets in an early-afternoon road game. The Lakers, who have been without 21-time All-NBA superstar LeBron James for the entire season so far due to sciatica, will be looking to bounce back in this matchup.
The Lakers' starting lineup will feature five-time All-NBA First Team guard Luka Doncic, returning guard Austin Reaves, three-time All-Defensive Team guard Marcus Smart, power forward Rui Hachimura, and center Deandre Ayton. Meanwhile, the Hornets will be without their own All-Star, point guard LaMelo Ball, as well as forward Brandon Miller.
Charlotte's starting five is set to include Collin Sexton at the point, Sion James at shooting guard, rookie lottery pick Kon Knueppel at small forward, Miles Bridges at power forward, and Ryan Kalkbrenner at center.
Both teams are dealing with key absences as they aim to secure a win in this early-season clash. The Lakers, in particular, have struggled without their perennial All-NBA superstar LeBron James, and will be looking to their supporting cast to step up and lead the way against the Hornets.




