Predictions
The Lakers’ next game will be tonight in Texas as they take on the San Antonio Spurs. Below are my predictions for LeBron James, Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, JaVale McGee, and Lance Stephenson.
LeBron James
Stats Predicted: 36 min, 27 pts, 11 reb, 7 ast, 2 stl, 10/18 FG, 2/4 3FG, 5/7 FT
LeBron James easily had his best outing of the season against the Denver Nuggets. Before his last two performances, however, James had missed the potential game-sealing free throws in an overtime loss to the Spurs.
If we know anything about the King, it is that he does not forget everything. He definitely will not forget his own mistake against the Spurs and will redeem himself in a victory against them on the road. LBJ will score 25+ once again and with Rondo returning, he can turn his focus from assisting to rebounding – leading to 10+ rebounds.
Lonzo Ball
Stats Predicted: 30 min, 10 pts, 7 reb, 9 ast, 2 stl, 1 blk, 4/9 FG, 2/3 3FG
Lonzo Ball has been magnificent during Rajon Rondo’s absence from the team. During that stretch, he has averaged 12.7 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.7 assists, and a monstrous 2.7 steals per game.
It will be tough for Coach Luke Walton to decide who starts this game, but regardless Zo should continue his hot performance. Lonzo will see a minutes cut, but will still reach 30 minutes. He will be huge on the boards and in the passing game.
Kyle Kuzma
Stats Predicted: 35 min, 26 pts, 10 reb, 2 ast, 1 blk, 9/19 FG, 4/9 3FG, 4/5 FT
Kyle Kuzma’s career-night, 37 points and eight rebounds, against the Spurs was spoiled last time. Tonight might be his last chance to start with Brandon Ingram returning. Do not be shocked if Kuz takes this game personally and gives Luke Walton some thought about his place in the starting lineup. Kyle will do what he does – score – but he will also be active on the boards as to not have the same result as last time against the Spurs.
JaVale McGee
Stats Predicted: 27 min, 14 pts, 7 reb, 1 ast, 2 blk, 6/9 FG, 2/3 FT
JaVale McGee has been huge for the Lakers so far this season. This may be the first time where JaVale does not turn heads. He will still turn in a double-digit scoring effort and chip in a couple blocks.
Lance Stephenson
Stats Predicted: 23 min, 12 pts, 6 reb, 4 ast, 1 stl, 5/11 FG, 1/2 3FG, 1/2 FT
Lance Stephenson has been amazing over the last three games. Moreover, he has become a fan favorite and the heat of the Lakers’ bench. Stephenson will continue to come through for the team and will score double-digits once again. With his ability to dedicate himself to different areas of the game, Lance will be active on the boards and in the passing game.
Team
Final Score Predicted: 112-103, a Lakers win
The Lakers have won back-to-back games and do not look to slow down. Moreover, the heartbreaking loss against the Spurs still stings and the team will be playing with a vengeance. With Rondo back the team should play much wiser and turn the ball over less than last time – they recorded a season-high 15 turnovers. Lakers win this one 112-103.