The Los Angeles Lakers are set to take on the San Antonio Spurs for the second time this season tonight at 5:30 PM (PST). Let’s take a look at the three keys to victory for the team.
These two teams have already met this season, with the Los Angeles Lakers winning 103-96. LeBron James put up a triple-double with 21 points, 11 rebounds, 13 assists, and chipped two steals and a block for good measure. Anthony Davis was just as dominant, pouring in 25 points and 11 rebounds, and playing DPOY level defense.
The Lakers are looking to extend their winning streak to eight games, and tighten their grip on the No. 1 spot in the Western Conference. The Spurs, on the other hand, are fighting just to get into the playoffs, as their 6-11 record puts them 11th in the Western Conference.
The Lakers offense is starting to come around, after a slow start. The return of Kyle Kuzma and Rajon Rondo have bolstered the team’s scoring and secondary playmaking and as a result, the Lakers have jumped to 7th in ORGT, while maintaining their defensive dominance at 2nd in DRTG.
On the injury front, the Spurs are going into this game 100% healthy, but the same can’t be said for the Lakers.
Alex Caruso sat out last game against the Grizzlies due to a calf injury but should return for this game, and Avery Bradley is still sidelined with a hairline fracture in his right foot. Kyle Kuzma has been dealing with an eye injury but has donned a James Worthy-Esque goggles look to keep him on the floor.
With all of that in mind, let’s take a closer look at what the Lakers need to do to come out of San Antonio with a win.