
Can the Lakers end their three-game losing streak and beat the top-seed Timberwolves?
The Lakers current situation heading into the game versus the Timberwolves is rough.
They’ve lost three straight and four of their last five and even with 13 of the 14 players on the roster available, they haven’t looked better or won games. Minnesota, on the other hand, continues to dominate and sit at the top of the standings with a 20-6 record.
Start time and TV schedule
Who: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Timberwolves
When: 6 p.m. PT, Dec. 21
Where: Target Center
Watch: NBA TV
This game will be a big test for the Lakers. The Timberwolves look legit and have their star player, Anthony Edwards, averaging 24.6 points a night. He will cause many problems for the Lakers as they’ve struggled to defend against elite guards.
The Minnesota bigs will be tough to beat, with Rudy Gobert still being a dominant rim protector and Karl-Anthony Towns playing some of the best ball of his career.
If Davis can manage the pain in his right ankle, he can help offset some of that production from Minnesota, but the Lakers will also need a big game from James and to get something, anything, from their supporting cast.
D’Angelo Russell has struggled as of late, failing to break double digits in the last two games, and only Reaves has consistently played well off the bench. He had 21 points in the Lakers’ most recent game against the Bulls.
The Lakers would surprise us all with a win on Thursday, but it wouldn’t really be a surprise. This team has stepped up and had some great games against top opponents when pushed. If Davis and LeBron James are available, they always have a shot.
Notes and Updates:
- Given this being the second night of a back-to-back, the Lakers have yet to update their injury report for Wednesday’s game. Tuesday’s injury report had Vincent (left knee effusion) and Jarred Vanderbilt (left heel bursitis) as probable. Anthony Davis (left ankle sprain/bone bruise) and LeBron James (left calf contusion) as questionable and Jalen Hood-Schifino (low back spasm) is out.
- For Minnesota, only Jaylen Clark (right Achilles) is out
- The Lakers have an 84-41 record all-time against the Timberwolves.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.