Lakers vs. Suns: Third Meeting Brings High Stakes, Key Absences, and a LeBron-Brooks Rivalry Brewing
For the third time this season, the Los Angeles Lakers and Phoenix Suns are set to clash-this time at Mortgage Matchup Center on Tuesday night. The season series is knotted at one apiece, and while both teams are jockeying for position in the Western Conference, this matchup carries more than just standings implications. It’s shaping up to be another chapter in a budding rivalry, and the stars-well, most of them-are ready to shine.
The last time these two met, it was a wild one. The Lakers edged out the Suns in a 116-114 thriller back on December 15, with Luka Dončić playing the hero.
He dropped 29 points, dished out six assists, and grabbed three rebounds in a performance that reminded everyone why he’s one of the most dynamic forces in the league. But this time around, Dončić won’t be suiting up.
He’s sidelined with a knee contusion, which shifts the dynamic significantly for L.A.
That’s not the only injury the Lakers are dealing with. Rui Hachimura (groin soreness) and Gabe Vincent (back strain) have also been ruled out, thinning the rotation for a team that’s already navigating a tough December schedule.
The Lakers have upgraded Austin Reaves (calf) to questionable for tomorrow’s game against the Suns.
— Brett Siegel (@BrettSiegelNBA) December 23, 2025
The bad news for LA is that Luka Doncic is out. pic.twitter.com/7w6XKOTL8W
The good news? Austin Reaves, who’s been out since the Lakers’ NBA Cup quarterfinal loss to the Spurs, has been upgraded to questionable with a calf strain.
His return would be a welcome boost for a squad in need of playmaking and perimeter shooting.
If Reaves remains out, the Lakers will have to lean even more heavily on LeBron James, who continues to defy time and expectation. The 20-year vet has been the engine behind L.A.’s 19-8 start, including an impressive 12-4 mark on the road. But he’ll need help, and that’s where the supporting cast comes in.
Look for Marcus Smart, Jarred Vanderbilt, Jake LaRavia, and Nick Smith Jr. to see expanded roles. Smart’s defensive presence and leadership will be critical, especially against a Suns team that can heat up quickly. Vanderbilt brings energy and versatility, while LaRavia and Smith Jr. offer fresh legs and the kind of hustle plays that can swing momentum.
Phoenix isn’t coming in quietly, either. The Suns boast a 15-3 record, including a solid 9-5 at home.
They’ve been steady, efficient, and dangerous-especially when their core is clicking. And while the focus is often on the stars, this game may come down to the depth and execution on both sides.
One subplot that adds spice to this matchup? The growing tension between LeBron James and Dillon Brooks.
There’s no love lost between the two, and their on-court battles have become must-watch moments. Expect some fireworks if they share the floor, with Brooks likely embracing the role of agitator and LeBron doing what he does best-letting his game do the talking.
With the season series on the line and playoff positioning already starting to matter, Tuesday’s game is more than just another date on the calendar. It’s a test of resilience for a banged-up Lakers squad and a chance for Phoenix to assert itself against a division rival. Buckle up-this one has all the makings of a December showdown worth watching.