Can LA Win Without Luka?
The NBA season is really heating up as we get closer to the All-Star break, and all eyes will be on the Crypto.com Arena this Thursday night. The Los Angeles Lakers (32–21) are hosting the struggling Dallas Mavericks (19–34) in a game that has plenty of sub-plots, even with some big names missing from the court.
While fans were hoping to see Luka Dončić take on his former team, the Lakers have officially ruled him OUT for tonight’s game as he recovers from a mild hamstring strain. Even without Luka, this matchup is a big test for both franchises as they head in very different directions on the Western Conference log.
The Storyline: A Massive Gap in Form
The Lakers are currently sitting 5th in the West and look like real playoff contenders. Even with Luka on the sidelines, the team has been playing well, winning 4 of their last 5 games. The combination of LeBron James and Austin Reaves has been excellent lately, giving the Lakers plenty of scoring options.
The Mavericks, meanwhile, are having a very tough season and find themselves down in 12th place. It’s been a year of transition for Dallas; after the blockbuster trade that sent Luka to LA last year, they recently “pulled the plug” on the Anthony Davis experiment, trading him to the Washington Wizards on February 4th. They are now building around their brilliant rookie, Cooper Flagg, but unfortunately, he is also out injured for tonight’s clash.
Key Matchups and Players to Watch
1. LeBron James (Lakers)
With Luka out, the “King” will be back in his element as the primary playmaker. LeBron missed the last game due to foot management but has been cleared to play tonight. At 41 years old, he is still averaging over 22 points per game and will likely look to dominate a depleted Mavericks defense.
2. Klay Thompson (Mavericks)
With Kyrie Irving and Cooper Flagg both unavailable, the veteran Klay Thompson has a massive job on his hands. He has struggled to find his rhythm this season, but the Mavs desperately need him to get hot from beyond the arc if they want to keep this game competitive.
3. Austin Reaves (Lakers)
Reaves has stepped up as a high-volume scorer for LA this season, averaging over 25 points per game. Without Luka, expect him to handle the ball a lot more and look for his own shot. He’s become a fan favourite in LA for a reason, and tonight is his chance to lead the offense.
Injury Report
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Lakers: Luka Dončić (Hamstring) is OUT. Deandre Ayton (Knee) is Questionable. LeBron James and Austin Reaves are Available.
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Mavericks: Cooper Flagg (Foot), Kyrie Irving (Knee), and Dereck Lively II (Foot) are all OUT.
Prediction
The Mavericks are in a very difficult spot right now. They are on an eight-game losing streak and are missing their three best offensive players. While the Lakers are also missing Luka, they still have the depth and the leadership of LeBron James to pull them through.
It might be scrappy at times, but the Lakers should have far too much firepower for this Dallas side.
Our Pick: Lakers to win by 12 points.
Fan Poll: Who Wins Tonight?
Have your say! Even with the injuries, which side are you backing to come out on top? Vote below to see the latest results.