The Los Angeles Lakers are back at it again Monday night, wrapping up a back-to-back set as they welcome the Phoenix Suns to Crypto.com Arena. And while most expected the Suns to take a step back after dealing away Kevin Durant this past offseason, they’ve done anything but fade into irrelevance. At 12-9, Phoenix has been more than competitive - they’ve been resilient, finding ways to win in a Western Conference that’s as deep as ever.
For the Lakers, the big question heading into the matchup was LeBron James’ status. He sat out Sunday’s win over the Pelicans, listed with “left foot injury management” - a phrase Lakers fans have grown familiar with as the team looks to preserve the 20-year veteran’s health over the long haul.
But the good news? LeBron is expected to suit up against the Suns, giving L.A. a much-needed boost as they try to build momentum heading into a tough road stretch.
Marcus Smart, however, remains sidelined with back spasms. The veteran guard missed Sunday’s game and will be out again Monday, though head coach JJ Redick noted he’s considered day-to-day - a sign that his absence may not extend much longer.
This matchup with Phoenix is more than just another game on the schedule. It’s a test of depth, endurance, and execution. The Lakers are navigating a packed stretch of the season, and Monday’s contest is the final home game before a three-game road swing that includes stops in Toronto, Boston, and Philadelphia - three teams with very different styles, but all capable of exposing weaknesses.
And looming just beyond that? A return home for a high-stakes showdown in the quarterfinal round of the Emirates NBA Cup. The Lakers will host the San Antonio Spurs next Wednesday, Dec. 10, in a game that could carry real weight depending on how the tournament unfolds.
For now, though, all eyes are on the Suns - a team that may no longer have Kevin Durant, but still has plenty of fight. And with LeBron back in the fold, the Lakers will look to handle business before the road gets a whole lot tougher.