The Los Angeles Lakers sans Anthony Davis will look to notch up their second win against the Washington Wizards this season.
Despite their big man’s foot injury that saw him hobble off in the side’s last game against the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles managed to tick most of their boxes to notch up a 126-108 win at home. The question is if they can manage to continue in the same vein.
It’s been a one-step forward, one step back for the Lakers after their gained momentum following their 0-5 start. While they did win against the Nuggets, they failed to close it out against the Boston Celtics the game before.
Come Sunday, they have a chance to prop up another win against a side that’s lost nine games in a row. The Wizards are 11-19, and while they have a chance to snap their losing streak, the Lakers also have a shot at getting closer to the .500 mark to close out their year on a good note.
The Purple and Gold will look to LeBron James and Russell Westbrook to do the bulk of their scoring. Washington will sweat over the fitness of Bradley Beal, their leading scorer. Making some noise ahead of the contest is Kyle Kuzma, who has been linked to his former side with the trade window now open.
On that note, we take a look at the probable starters, the injury report, and the match prediction ahead of the Sunday skirmish.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Lakers will be without Anthony Davis, who underwent an MRI after the game against Denver. Word from the LA camp is “foot soreness” suggesting the injury isn’t major. Thomas Bryant, the unlikely hero for the side last game will play center.
Also missing out on the game will be Juan Toscano-Anderson (ankle) and Wenyen Gabriel (shoulder). James is listed probable, but will surely be taking the court.
The predicted starting five will see the usual names. Patrick Beverley (G), Dennis Schroder (G), Lonnie Walker IV (F), LeBron James (F), and Thomas Bryant (C).
Washington Wizards Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Wizards will be hoping Beal suits up for the side. He missed out against the Los Angeles Clippers with a hamstring issue, and his lacing up is listed questionable at the moment. Also out is Rui Hachimura (ankle) and Delon Wright (hamstring).
Expect the Wizards to go with the same side they fielded against the Clippers. Jordan Goodwin (G), Corey Kispert (G), Deni Avdija (F), Kyle Kuzma (F), and Kristaps Porzingis (C).
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Washington Wizards Predictions
The Lakers enter this game as firm favorites. James and the rest of the unit are gelling better and are more cohesive as a unit with every passing game. With Russell Westbrook and Austin Reaves playing their parts, Los Angeles has enough artillery to get past Washington.
All eyes will be on Kuzma and Porzingis to step up and snap the losing streak. At this point, the Lakers will look to build on the momentum they gained and keep their good habits going. For starters, they held on the lead, protected the rim, and made the Nuggets pay for their mistakes.
The plan won’t likely change much against the Wizards. If there was ever a time for the side to capitalize, then this matchup is it. Expect the Purple and Gold to take this win.
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