If you’re scrambling to figure out what time is lakers game today, you aren't alone. Tip-off is set for 7:30 PM PT (10:30 PM ET) tonight, Thursday, January 15, 2026. The Los Angeles Lakers are hosting the Charlotte Hornets at Crypto.com Arena, and honestly, it’s a bigger game than the records might suggest.
The Lakers are coming in with a 24-14 record. They’ve been solid, mostly because Luka Doncic has been playing at an MVP level since that blockbuster trade that reshaped the franchise. The Hornets, meanwhile, sit at 14-26. Don't let that fool you. They’ve been playing much better lately, and they’ve been in LA for a few days resting up after playing the Clippers.
Lakers Game Today: Start Time and Broadcast Details
You can catch the action on Spectrum SportsNet LA if you’re local. If you’re a Hornets fan or just following from afar, it’ll be on FanDuel Sports Network Southeast (FDSSE).
Streaming is usually the way most of us go these days. You can find the game on Fubo or through NBA League Pass if you’re out of market. Just a heads up: local blackout rules still apply for League Pass, which is always a bit of a headache.
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It’s actually Dr. Jerry Buss Night at the arena tonight. That always adds a bit of extra energy to the building. If you're heading down to 1111 S Figueroa St, expect the usual downtown traffic to be a mess around 6:30 PM.
Who Is Playing Tonight?
The roster looks a little different than what we were used to a couple of years ago. Luka Doncic is the engine now. He’s averaging 33.4 points, 7.9 rebounds, and 8.8 assists. It’s wild watching him and LeBron James share the court, even though LeBron has clearly taken a secondary role at this stage of his career.
Injuries are hitting the Lakers' depth right now.
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- Austin Reaves is out with a calf issue.
- Adou Thiero is out (knee).
- Jaxson Hayes is a game-time decision with a hamstring problem.
For the Hornets, keep an eye on Kon Knueppel. He’s been a revelation this season, hitting about 3.4 threes per game. LaMelo Ball is still their primary playmaker, and he’s been putting up over 20 points a night.
Keys to the Game
The Lakers are 4.5-point favorites according to the latest lines. The over/under is sitting at 232.5.
Los Angeles has been dominant at home, but they’ve been a bit inconsistent against the spread. If Deandre Ayton can control the glass against Moussa Diabate, the Lakers should be able to run. But if the Hornets get hot from three—which Knueppel and Miles Bridges are prone to doing—this could get tight.
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Basically, it comes down to whether the Lakers' role players like Rui Hachimura and Jake LaRavia can step up with Reaves sidelined.
Actionable Next Steps for Fans
If you're planning to watch, here is exactly what you need to do:
- Double-check your regional sports network. Spectrum SportsNet is the home for Lakers fans, but check your local listings if you've recently switched providers.
- Set your DVR for 7:30 PM PT. NBA games rarely start exactly on the dot, but with the Dr. Jerry Buss tributes planned, the pre-game show is worth a watch.
- Monitor the injury report. Keep an eye on Jaxson Hayes’ status until about 30 minutes before tip-off; his presence changes how the Lakers match up with Charlotte's size.
- Plan for the "Late Night" finish. If you're on the East Coast, this one won't wrap up until nearly 1:00 AM.
The Lakers have a tough stretch coming up with games against the Blazers and Raptors this weekend, so grabbing a win tonight against a sub-.500 Hornets team is pretty much a requirement to stay in the top half of the Western Conference standings.