What’s up with the Los Angeles Lakers?
The brewing excitement for the Lakers’ next matchup is because of the new pieces they added at the trade deadline. They let go of Russell Westbrook, Patrick Beverley, Thomas Bryant, Damian Jones, Juan Toscano-Anderson, and second-round draft picks in exchange for three rotational players in D’Angelo Russell, Malik Beasley, and Jarred Vanderbilt.
The franchise also recently acquired Davon Reed and Mo Bamba, but Bamba will be unable to play versus the Warriors because of his four-game suspension.
All the new players—plus LeBron James—weren’t able to play in the 115-106 loss to the Bucks. With their trade deadline moves, LA is hoping to get more wins to enter the play-in contention, starting with the defending champions.
Russell, who is coming to replace Westbrook, doesn't have an MVP award or multiple All-NBA selections but he can give a breath of fresh air for the Lakers as he can deliver on offense and help with the playmaking duties.
LeBron James (left ankle soreness) and Anthony Davis (right foot stress injury) are probable to play but this upcoming game will be all about the debut of their new players.
What’s up with the Golden State Warriors?
The Warriors will be hosting the Lakers and will be looking to build off their impressive 21-6 record at home. The last time these two teams met, the Dubs defeated the Lakers, 123-109, leading by as many as 27 points.
Golden State is coming off a loss to the Portland Trail Blazers despite a 38-point display from Jordan Poole. They picked up some big wins over the Dallas Mavericks and the Oklahoma City Thunder but have once again returned to their losing ways, continuing to struggle since Stephen Curry got sidelined.
Prediction
Curry’s absence is certainly a huge blow for the Warriors’ offense. Klay Thompson and Draymond Green are out there trying to make it work, but their offense can’t keep up with the other teams.
Meanwhile, the Lakers are slowly losing ground in the playoff race so they might be very desperate in snapping their skid against the Dubs. With LeBron coming back on the floor, they have a really good chance of outgunning the fast-paced Warriors.
Where to watch
You can catch the Lakers and Warriors in action live tomorrow at 9:30 AM on NBA League Pass.
