The Lakers are heating up at just the right time. Winners of eight of their last 11, they’ve settled into a rhythm that feels more sustainable than streaky.
And with an extended stay at home - eight straight games at Crypto.com Arena and 15 of their next 18 in L.A. - the schedule is finally working in their favor. Monday night brings another test, though, as they host the defending champion Oklahoma City Thunder.
The Thunder come in banged up, and that could tilt the scales. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, the reigning MVP and scoring leader, is out with an abdominal strain.
That’s a massive blow for Oklahoma City, considering how much of their offense runs through him. Three more players will also be sidelined, thinning out the rotation even further.
But it’s not all bad news for OKC - Jalen Williams, who’s been out for 10 games with a hamstring injury, is expected to return. He’s a key piece, especially in Shai’s absence, and his ability to create off the dribble and defend multiple positions gives the Thunder a much-needed boost.
The Lakers are dealing with their own health issues, though they’re in better shape overall. Luka Doncic will miss his second straight game with a hamstring injury suffered last Thursday against the Sixers.
Deandre Ayton sat out Saturday’s win over Golden State with knee soreness but is listed as probable for Monday. If he’s good to go, his presence in the paint will be critical, especially against a Thunder team that likes to play small and fast.
Rookie forward Adou Thiero remains out with an MCL sprain, but he’s been assigned to the South Bay Lakers to begin practicing, signaling he may be inching closer to a return.
This matchup is the second of a busy stretch for L.A., who will turn right around and face Victor Wembanyama and the red-hot San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday. The Spurs currently sit second in the West and are riding a four-game win streak. After that, the Lakers will close out the week against the Dallas Mavericks before heading into the All-Star break.
For now, though, the focus is on Oklahoma City. With both teams missing stars, this game could come down to which supporting cast steps up. The Lakers have found a groove lately, and if they can keep riding that wave - especially at home - they’ll be in prime position to climb the standings heading into the break.