The Los Angeles Lakers need all hands on deck for the final slate of games this season. After a dominant win over the Pelicans yesterday, the Lakers’ next game is against the Oklahoma City Thunder at Paycom Center and the full injury report for both teams has finally been released.
Starting with the Lakers, LeBron James is listed as probable for the game on April 6 as he continues his recovery from a groin injury. LeBron said he’s feeling good after scoring 27 points yesterday but it’s no secret the Lakers are taking a cautious approach with the 40-year-old superstar. If there’s any pain or discomfort in the area, the Lakers will surely keep him out, especially considering they just played back-to-back games.
This season, the Lakers star is averaging 24.6 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game on 51.2% shooting. As the Lakers’ leading floor general and playmaker on the floor, James is essential to their success and they need him at 100% to stand a chance against the Thunder.
The only other player on the Lakers’ injury report is Maxi Kleber, who has yet to make his debut after receiving surgery on his right foot. The timetable for his return is unknown, but he’d give the Lakers a nice boost in the frontcourt.
The situation is similar for the Thunder, who will be mostly healthy going into Sunday’s game. Their injury report includes bench players like Jaylin Williams, Qusmane Dieng, Alex Ducas, Ajay Mitchell, and Nikola Topic — who have all been ruled out for the game.
The Thunder will have all of their core players available, including the season’s lead MVP candidate, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander. He’s sure to give the Lakers a tough time defensively with averages of 32.6 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game on 51.9% shooting.
With both teams essentially at full strength, it’s going to be interesting to see who pulls away with the win. While the Thunder are the better, more complete team, the Lakers have proven stars leading the way, such as LeBron James and Luka Doncic, who both have extensive playoff experience.
This season, the Thunder are ranked third on offense and first on defense, making them the best team in the league and the favorites to win it all. As long as they stay healthy the rest of the season, they’ll be in a good place for the opening round.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are gearing up for their postseason run. Ever since the Luka Doncic trade, Los Angeles has emerged as a top team in the league but they cannot afford to lose focus down the stretch, not with so many teams right on their tail in the standings.
With their next two games against the Thunder, the Lakers will have their hands full trying to avoid back-to-back losses but they like their chances to come out clean. With their big three healthy and ready to play, the Lakers will put up a tough fight as they fight for their preferred playoff position this year.
