Doncic Dominates, Reaves' Return Ignites Lakers

Merlin sees Luka Dončić steer the Lakers to a 121–111 win over the Hornets, pouring in 38 points, six rebounds and seven assists while Austin Reaves returned from injury to "make an immediate impact" with 24. All five starters scored in double figures (Rui Hachimura 21, DeAndre Ayton 14, Marcus Smart 13), the club improved to 8–3, and Doncćic’s control of the pace steadied a team that had stumbled in Atlanta. Merlin senses the chemistry clicking: a third-quarter surge built a 96–78 cushion, and clutch free throws closed out Charlotte’s late push led by Miles Bridges’ 34. If this rotation stays healthy, the Lakers could turn balanced scoring into sustained runs; the true test arrives on the road against Oklahoma City.