Previewing the Marquee Games of March

March 27^th vs. New Orleans Hornets

The Lakers have won the first three meeting with the Hornets, and they will be looking to sweep the season series. The Hornets have been one of the biggest surprises of the NBA this season, and they were one of the best teams in the league during the opening months. However, as time moved on the Hornets began to lose their defensive intensity and energy.  The Hornets have a plethora of offensive scorers, so the Lakers must capitalize on New Orleans’ weaknesses.

March 31^st vs. Dallas Mavericks

The Lakers will have their second meeting with the Mavericks, but this time the venue will be the Staples Center.  The Lakers will play their final game of a seven game home-stand, and they will be looking to head into the final month of the regular season with a win. If all the pieces fall into place, this late-March game could have serious playoff implications. A victory could jump the Lakers above the third seed in the West, while a loss can hurt the Lakers’ chances for an ideal playoff position.