The King took over the Queen City.

It was a packed house in the Queen City at Spectrum center for the Lakers vs Hornets matchup Monday night. The L.A. Lakers kicked off 2023 by beating the Charlotte Hornets on the road 121-115. James scored 43 points to pull within 500 of the NBA record. Since turning 38 on Friday, James has had consecutive 40-point games. LeBron had two dunks on alley-oops, including a high-flying, reverse windmill slam off a feed from Dennis Schroder.

Photo: Sheldon Kearse/AllAnglesCLT

Terry Rozier had 27 points to lead the Hornets, who have lost 13 of their last 16 games. LaMelo Ball added 24 points and Mason Plumlee had 18 points and 14 rebounds for Charlotte.

Photo: Sheldon Kearse/AllAnglesCLT

LeBron James finished the game with 43 points, 11 rebounds and 6 assists. The lakers move to 16-21 on the season and the Hornets go to 10-28.