Rozier Scores 27 Points, Leads Hornets Past Wizards 114-104
WASHINGTON (AP) — Terry Rozier scored 27 points, Gordon Hayward had 26 points and a season-high 11 rebounds and the Charlotte Hornets beat the Washington Wizards 114-104 on Tuesday night.
Charlotte has won four of five after losing Rookie of the Year favorite La Melo Ball to a fractured right wrist.
Washington (17-29) played without NBA leading scorer Bradley Beal for the second straight game due to a bruised right hip. Rui Hachimura tied his career high with 30 points for the Wizards. Russell Westbrook had his 17th triple-double of the season and his third straight with 22 points, 15 assists and 15 rebounds. Robin Lopez had 16 points and 11 rebounds.
The Hornets, who improved to 24-22, went on a 16-2 run to take a 50-39 lead midway in the second quarter. While Washington got within 98-95 with 4:12 to play, Charlotte pulled away to secure the win.
Devonte' Graham scored 17 points and Cody Zeller had 16 points and 13 rebounds for the Hornets.
TIP-INS
Hornets: Rozier was named the Eastern Conference player of the week for his play from March 22-28. "To be recognized in this league, you've got to win in this league," coach James Borrego said. … F Malik Monk missed his second game with a sore right foot.
Wizards: G Raul Neto was out with a bruised left rib. … F/C Daniel Gafford was out with a sprained right ankle that he injured in Monday's game. … G Ish Smith, who hasn't played since Feb. 12 with a right quadriceps injury and F Davis Bertans, who has missed six games with a strained right calf are improving. Coach Scott Brooks said, "They're increasing their activities. Don't know when they'll be back."
UP NEXT
Hornets: Visit the Brooklyn Nets on Thursday.
Wizards: Visit the Detroit Pistons on Thursday.
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