The Lakers, on a 5-game winning streak (3-0 since LeBron’s return), have advanced to the knockout round of the NBA Cup after Tuesday’s victory against the Clippers.
Tuesday’s win over the Clippers marked the Lakers’ fifth straight win and 13th overall on the season. Luka Doncic led the way with yet another impressive 40+ point game, posting 43 points, 7-12 from three, 9 rebounds, and 13 assists. He has already entered the top 10 for most 40-point games in Lakers history.
In addition to Doncic’s stellar performance, his co-stars also performed at a high level. Austin Reaves totaled 31 points on 11-16 shooting, 9 rebounds, and 3 steals. LeBron James looks to be steadily returning to form game by game. He put up 25 points on 9-15 shooting to go along with 6 rebounds and 6 assists.
The Mavericks Come to Town
Friday night’s matchup at Crypto.com Arena will be the first time the Lakers and Mavericks face off this season. The last time these two teams met, Luka had a 45-point performance on Dallas’ home floor. Tonight is also an NBA Cup game, where the Lakers can obtain homecourt advantage for the knockout round.
According to ESPN, Anthony Davis will make his return tonight after missing the last 14 games with a calf strain. Davis had been hinting at his return and expressed his desire to play in this game specifically. It will be AD’s first time playing at Crypto.com Arena since the trade.
DeAndre Ayton is listed as “available” for the Lakers tonight after missing Tuesday’s game due to a right knee contusion he suffered against the Jazz last Sunday. His presence will be much needed against Dallas’ big men. However, guard Marcus Smart is listed as “doubtful” with back spasms.
L.A. will get to see former Laker Max Christie, who is shooting a career-high 47.6% from three on almost 13 points a game. They’ll also get their first look at No. 1 overall pick Cooper Flagg, who is currently in the running for Rookie of the Year. He’s averaging 15.9 points a game with 6.4 rebounds and 3.1 assists.
The Lakers, as of now, sit at the 2nd seed in the West, and their continuous effort to build upon championship habits has so far paid dividends.
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