The return of D’Angelo Russell comes as good news as a rejuvenated Los Angeles Lakers sans LeBron James take on the Toronto Raptors at the Crypto.com Arena on Friday.
LA’s win against the Memphis Grizzlies finally propelled the side to the Top 10. They are ninth in the Western Conference standings with a 32-34 record and will look to make the climb by pipping the Raptors, who are also ninth in the East with a 32-35 run.
Russell’s return from ankle injury adds more teeth to the Lakers’ offense, and they will look to showcase their defensive prowess against a dangerous Toronto outfit who will have a point to prove after their loss to the LA Clippers at the same venue earlier this week.
The objective for both teams is simple: To get on a winning streak. And the Lakers are better placed, given their recent string of performances. On that note, here’s a look at the projected starters, the injury reports of both teams, and the prediction.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
Per ESPN’s updated injury report, James will miss the clash, as well as Mo Bamba, who is set to miss at least four weeks of action. Russell is listed as probable, as is Anthony Davis. However, both players are expected to suit up.
D’Angelo Russell (G), Malik Beasley (G), Troy Brown Jr. (F), Jarred Vanderbilt (F), and Anthony Davis (C) will be the projected starters for the Lakers.
Toronto Raptors Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Raptors will be without the services of Otto Porter Jr. and Will Barton. The rest of the unit will be available to take the floor.
Expect the Raptors to go with the same unit as the last game. Scottie Barnes (G), Fred VanVleet (G), Pascal Siakam (F), OG Anunoby (F), and Jakob Poetl (C) are the likely starters.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Toronto Raptors Predictions
The Raptors come into the clash hoping to arrest their two-game slide. While they are in the East’s top 10, a win would do them well and keep them in the playoff hunt.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are desperate to make that surge, and they are winning games without James on the side comes as a promising sign. A win tomorrow would further help their chances in an increasing scramble for the postseason berth in the West.
Davis and LA’s beefed-up defense are the two things to watch out for. The team now has the best Defensive Rating in the league, with their new recruits playing their role to perfection. And their center has been on a tear with four 30+ point performances in his last five games.
The Lakers are still favorites, but count the Raptors out at your own peril. Quite simply, the Friday marquee clash will be quite the humdinger.
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