Lakers’ Week 19 in review

The Lakers went winless through Week 19, falling to the Charlotte Hornets, Miami Heat, Memphis Grizzlies and Dallas Mavericks.

The team also fell March 1 to the Oklahoma City Thunder, making it five straight losses after the team had won three in a row.

Starting in Charlotte, the Lakers fell to the Hornets, 104-103, getting beaten by the hungrier team.

In a strong showing in Miami, the Lakers lost control late in the game, falling 100-94 -- although the NBA acknowledged that a call was missed by officials in the final minute of play.

Continuing the trend, the Lakers lost a late 10-point lead, falling in Memphis, 97-90, but getting a career high from rookie Jordan Clarkson, one of the team’s bright spots in a brutal season.

To the Lakers, Clarkson has overshadowed the more experienced Jeremy Lin.

The Lakers fell, 100-93, at home to the Mavericks, again blowing a late lead. Kobe Bryant returned to the Lakers’ bench for the game, at the request of Coach Byron Scott.

Given the team’s need for a high pick in June’s NBA draft, many fans are getting used to the idea of rooting for their team to lose.

Duke prospect Jahlil Okafor is still a work in progress. Point guard Emmanuel Mudiay returned to action in China.

The Lakers may also apply for a hardship exception, which would allow the team to go to 16 players.

Meanwhile, Nick Young defended his girlfriend’s honor on Twitter. Scott said Young is “not having a good year.”

Former Lakers guard Brian Shaw was fired as coach of the Denver Nuggets.

Jordan Hill showed support for the Komen Race for the Cure event.

Lakers assistant coach Thomas Scott said he tries to stay optimistic amid the losses.

Email Eric Pincus at [email protected] and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus