The Charlotte Hornets' (17-19) struggles continued on Saturday, as they were beaten 97-83 by the Los Angeles Clippers (24-13).
The Clippers, still without star Blake Griffin (quad), have had no problem keeping up, and are now winners of eight straight. In Griffin's absence, superstar point guard Chris Paul has elevated his play. Paul posted 25 points to go along with seven rebounds and seven assists in the win over Charlotte. The All-NBA and All-Defense guard was an issue for Charlotte on both ends, not only leading the Clippers in scoring but also holding opposing point guard Kemba Walker to just 4-for-16 from the floor. Charlotte big man Al Jefferson (meniscus) sat the contest out, allowing LA center DeAndre Jordan to have full control of the glass. Jordan posted a game-high 19 rebounds as well as two steals and four blocks.
Charlotte, meanwhile, has fallen out of the Eastern Conference playoff picture after starting hot at 10-5. Charlotte has now lost nine of their last eleven, and in the absence of star center Al Jefferson, these problems could persist. Backup guard Jeremy Lin, however was a bright spot for the Hornets. Lin exploded for 26 points, four rebounds, and four assists. The strong effort was not enough, however, to trump the surging Clippers.
Charlotte's luck could take a turn for the better on Sunday, as they take on the struggling Nuggets. The Clippers seem poised to have their hot streak continue as their next game matches them against the underperforming Pelicans on Sunday.
