Abstract <p>The nodes of lattice structure are crucial in mechanical performance design. In this study, we introduced spherical nodes into a hexagonal body-centered (NHBC) lattice structure based on the characteristics of hexagonal prism and body centered cubic structure, and systematically investigated the effects of different sizes and distributions of the spherical nodes on the mechanical properties of laser powder bed fusion (LPBF) additively manufactured NHBC lattice structures. The results demonstrate that the size and distribution of reinforced nodal spheres significantly influence the mechanical properties of lattice structures. Although the NHBC4 lattice structure, featuring 1.21&#xa0;mm diameter spheres distributed at all nodes, exhibits the highest elastic modulus and ultimate strength, it shows the lowest specific elastic modulus and specific ultimate strength. In contrast, the NHBC2 lattice structure achieves the highest specific elastic modulus and specific ultimate strength, surpassing NHBC4 by 13.3% and 6.3%, respectively. Analysis of the deformation behavior and failure modes of the node-reinforced lattice structures reveals that the reinforced nodal sphere design effectively optimizes stress distribution at the nodes. This modification shifts the fracture location of the edge z-struts from the nodes to the center of the edge z-struts, indicating enhanced structural integrity and load redistribution capabilities.</p> Graphical Abstract <p></p>