Charlotte Hornets: Circling the four biggest game on the 2018-19 schedule

CHARLOTTE, NC - DECEMBER 06: Kevin Durant #35 of the Golden State Warriors tries to keep the ball from Nicolas Batum #5 of the Charlotte Hornets during their game at Spectrum Center on December 6, 2017 in Charlotte, North Carolina. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Streeter Lecka/Getty Images) /

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LOS ANGELES, CA – JANUARY 05: Kentavious Caldwell-Pope #1 and Kyle Kuzma #0 of the Los Angeles Lakers box out Jeremy Lamb #3 of the Charlotte Hornets on a foul shot during the first half of a game at Staples Center on January 5, 2018 in Los Angeles, California. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

L.A. Lakers (December 15th)

There will be plenty of storylines when the new-look L.A. Lakers come to Charlotte. The biggest is that this will be LeBron James’ first trip to Charlotte as a Laker. The Hornets are more than familiar with arguably the best player in the game from his time in the division with the Miami Heat and recently as a member of the Cleveland Cavaliers.

However, that is the only connection between these two organizations as the Hornets current general manager, Mitch Kupchak, was long time general manager of the Lakers. He had been a member of the Lakers’ front office for over 30 years when he started as assistant general manager in 1986.

Kupchak was promoted to general manager in 2000, replacing the legendary Jerry West. In the 17 years as GM, the Lakers won four championships and reached the NBA Finals two other years.

There is no question this is one game Mitch Kupchak would love to win.

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