If it feels like the Lakers and Suns are stuck on repeat this month, you’re not wrong. Tuesday night marks the third time these two Western Conference squads will square off in December, with the season series currently tied at one apiece.
Phoenix took the first meeting back on December 1, cruising to a 125-108 win. Two weeks later, the Lakers responded with a gritty 116-114 victory that came down to the wire. Now, with the rubber match set for Tuesday night, the winner grabs the edge in the season series - and potentially a little mental real estate heading into the new year.
LeBron’s In, Luka’s Out
The Lakers will be walking into this one a bit shorthanded - and with a twist that might raise a few eyebrows. Star guard Luka Doncic, who’s been key for L.A. this season, has been ruled out due to a left calf contusion suffered in their last outing against the Clippers.
His absence is a big blow, especially given how much of the offensive load he’s carried. His status moving forward is considered day-to-day.
Joining Doncic on the injury list are Gabe Vincent and Rui Hachimura, both ruled out as they continue to deal with their own health setbacks. That’s a lot of firepower missing for a team trying to build momentum during a tough stretch of the schedule.
But here’s the good news for Lakers fans: LeBron James is good to go. He’s not on the injury report, and he’s coming off his best performance of the season - a vintage 36-point outing against the Clippers that also included 4 rebounds and 3 assists. Even at this stage of his career, LeBron continues to find ways to dominate, and his presence alone keeps L.A. in any game.
Through 11 games this season, LeBron is averaging 20.2 points, 7.1 assists, and 5.6 rebounds - steady, all-around production that speaks to his ability to impact the game in multiple ways, even when he’s not lighting up the scoreboard.
Reaves Could Return
Austin Reaves, who’s missed the last three games with a calf strain, is listed as questionable for the matchup. If he’s able to suit up, it would be a timely boost for a Lakers backcourt that’s suddenly looking pretty thin without Doncic and Vincent. Reaves brings energy, playmaking, and a willingness to take on tough defensive assignments - all things the Lakers could use against a Suns team that can score in bunches.
More to Come
This won’t be the last time these two teams see each other this season. They’re scheduled to meet again in February and again in April, so Tuesday’s game isn’t just about the standings - it’s about setting the tone for what’s likely to be a tightly contested season series.
With LeBron ready, the Lakers will look to lean on their veteran leader to carry them through a tough matchup. But without Doncic, they’ll need others to step up - and fast - if they want to keep pace with a Suns team that’s already shown it can take control when the opportunity presents itself.