Live discussion: Will the Lakers hold on to a playoff spot?

Join Times Lakers writer Mike Bresnahan and Clippers writer Brad Turner at 11:30 a.m. today as they hold a live video chat about their respective teams. You will be able to ask them questions during the chat, which will take place on this blog post.

The Clippers are assured a playoff spot, but the Lakers are still battling for the last playoff spot in the West, enhancing their chances with a big victory over the New Orleans Hornets on Tuesday.

As Bresnahan wrote,

“It could have been the Lakers’ darkest hour this season, losing at home to the New Orleans Hornets.

“So Kobe Bryant brought out his flashlight, flicked it on and shined it directly at the Hornets.

“Twelve chaotic minutes later, Bryant had taken the Lakers to a 104-96 victory Tuesday at Staples Center.

“Yes, there is light near the end of the regular season. Barely.

“Bryant entered the fourth quarter with seven points and finished with 30, pushing the Lakers to their most important victory this season, if only because they moved half a game ahead of Utah for eighth place in the Western Conference.

“It wasn’t the kind of night that inspired confidence for a long Lakers playoff run. Not even close.

“But if they make it past April 17, they can thank Bryant. As usual.

“We have one of the best closers in the game,” Lakers Coach Mike D’Antoni said. “That’s why we could be a dangerous team.”

ALSO:

Jay-Z reportedly looking to sell his share of Brooklyn Nets

Joe Paterno’s widow says they were ignorant about sexual predators

Watch ex-Michigan quarterback Denard Robinson one-hop his first pitch