The Lakers are looking to keep the momentum rolling as they aim for a third straight win Saturday night in a crosstown showdown with the Clippers. It's round two of the season series between the Los Angeles rivals, with the Lakers already holding one win from their NBA Cup Group Stage clash back in late November.
But while the Lakers have been trending upward, they'll be heading into this one shorthanded. Austin Reaves, Deandre Ayton, and Gabe Vincent have all been ruled out due to injuries. That’s a trio of rotation pieces missing, and their absence will test the Lakers’ depth, especially on the defensive end and in second-unit playmaking.
The bright spot? LeBron James is good to go - and that’s always a game-changer.
James, who isn’t listed on the injury report, will suit up for his fifth straight game. While he’s only appeared in 10 games so far this season, his impact has been felt every time he’s stepped on the floor.
He’s averaging 18.6 points, 7.5 assists, and 5.8 rebounds per game - numbers that speak to the all-around influence he still commands in Year 21. In the first meeting against the Clippers, LeBron dropped a well-rounded 25-6-6 line, showing once again that he still thrives in the spotlight of L.A.’s biggest basketball rivalry.
The Lakers come into the matchup sitting comfortably in fourth place in the Western Conference at 19-7. It’s been a strong start to the season, and they’re playing like a team that knows exactly who they are - a balanced group with championship aspirations, led by a still-dominant James and a supporting cast that’s finding its rhythm.
The Clippers, on the other hand, are in a very different place. At 6-21, they’re 14th in the West and riding a five-game losing streak.
It’s been a rough stretch, and this matchup with the Lakers doesn’t offer much relief. The Clippers will need to dig deep to avoid extending their skid, especially against a Lakers squad that’s clicking on both ends.
Saturday’s game is the second of three remaining meetings between the two teams this season, with the next matchups set for January and February. If the first game was any indication, this one should bring plenty of energy, even if the standings suggest a mismatch.
When it’s Lakers vs. Clippers, pride is always on the line - and with LeBron back in the mix, expect the Lakers to come out swinging.