The Los Angeles Lakers will look to extend their winning streak when they host the formidable New York Knicks unit at the Crypto.com Arena on Sunday.
The side has played some gutsy and scintillating ball despite the absence of LeBron James, who’s recovering from his ankle injury. They have won eight of their last 11 games, and while at it, they have also been the best defensive team in the league.
Taking them on is another team that’s experienced a similar journey of sorts. The Knicks have been one of the more impressive teams in the East, winning nine of their last eleven games. While their defense has been somewhat of an area to exploit, they boast as the team with the third-best in the league offensively.
The bigger challenge for the Lakers will be to outscore the likes of RJ Barrett and Julius Randle. For New York, it’s all about stopping the Anthony Davis and D’Angelo Russell juggernaut.
On that note, here are the likely starters, the injury reports from both camps, and the predictions for the Sunday blockbuster.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Lakers will be without the services of LeBron James. The veteran will miss out on at least two more weeks before being re-evaluated. Per ESPN’s updated injury report, Davis has been listed as probable, but he will almost definitely suit up. Mo Bamba will miss the contest.
Expect the Lakers to go with the same team that started against the Raptors. D’Angelo Russell (G), Malik Beasley (G), Troy Brown Jr. (F), Jarred Vanderbilt (F), and Anthony Davis (C) will be the likely starters.
New York Knicks Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Knicks have listed Jalen Brunson as day-to-day. Barring the guard, the rest of the unit looks primed to take the floor.
Immanuel Quickley (G), Quentin Grimes (G), RJ Barrett (F), Julius Randle (F), and Mitchell Robinson (C) might be the starting five for the Knicks.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. New York Knicks Predictions
The Knicks come into the contest after a loss to the Los Angeles Clippers, and the last time they played the Lakers, they ran into a red-hot Rui Hachimura, who led with 19 points to help LA register a 129-123 overtime win.
While their offense is something that’s won games for them, their erratic play on the defensive end is something the outfit will be keen to rectify as they risk running Davis score freely if they fail to fend off his threat.
On the other hand, the Lakers will look to avoid being complacent. They may have made their way into the Top 10, but a win on Sunday will just be what they need to hit the .500 mark — something they haven’t done all season. All things considered, the Purple and Gold are still favorites, given their recent run of form and the Knicks’ two-game skid.
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