Hornets avoid letdown, earn 104-103 win over Lakers

The Charlotte Hornets escaped Time Warner Cable Arena with a narrow 104-103 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers Tuesday night, thanks in part to yet another 'triple double-double' and some late shutdown defense.

Al Jefferson put in a performance reminiscent of what he did last year, putting up 21 points and 16 boards for the Hornets (25-33). Mo Williams continued to play of the role of 'Everyone's Favorite New Hornet,' dropping 20 points and dishing out a season-high 13 assists. Cody Zeller played his best game in a long time with 10 points and 11 rebounds in 21 minutes.

Also of note, Gerald Henderson dropped 21 points, Michael Kidd-Gilchrist chipped in 12 points, six boards, a block and a steal and Marvin Williams added eight points off the bench, seven of which came in the first half. The offense rebounded after a so-so effort against the Orlando Magic, shooting nearly 50 percent from the floor and moving the ball crisply and cleanly for the most part.

Jeremy Lin led the Lakers (16-43) with 23 points off the bench, many of which came at the expense of Brian Roberts, and Jordan Clarkson finished 19 points. Los Angeles' bench outscored Charlotte's 49-20, which is a little worrying to say the least.

Charlotte hits the floor again tomorrow night when they take on the Brooklyn Nets.