The Los Angeles Lakers (7-2) return home on Friday to face the Portland Trail Blazers (6-1) in a rematch that also counts as an NBA Cup game, with both teams in West Group C. The game kicks off at 7 p.m. PT at Crypto.com Arena and will be broadcast on Spectrum Sportsnet.
One of the Lakers’ two defeats this season was handed to them by the Blazers, who dominated on LA’s home court last week. That game highlighted several Lakers’ weaknesses, including poor rebounding, excessive dependence on Luka Dončić, and shaky team defense. Although these issues persist, the Lakers have made progress in addressing them since the loss. Friday’s matchup presents a chance for LA to even the score.
This game will reveal how well the Lakers have learned from their earlier defeat, what adjustments they’ve implemented, and how committed they are to making a strong run in the NBA Cup after a rough opener against the Warriors.
Here are three key points to watch ahead of the Lakers-Blazers clash:
Ja Morant Will Miss the Game
Morant played a major role in Portland’s first win over the Lakers, scoring 23 points and making nine of 13 attempts in the paint, which the Lakers struggled to defend. Fortunately for LA, Morant is sidelined with a Grade 2 hamstring injury and won’t play Friday. This means more opportunities for Deni Avdija, Damian Lillard, and Scoot Henderson, who has stepped into Morant’s starting spot.
Lakers’ Defensive Adjustments Are Crucial
Defense will be the biggest factor if the Lakers want to secure a victory. In their last meeting, Portland shot 50% from three-point range and scored 56 points in the paint. While that shooting may have been an anomaly, the Lakers cannot afford a repeat without tightening their defense. The Blazers boast a deep offense and currently rank seventh in rebounding and in the top 10 for both offensive and defensive ratings, leading the league in scoring at 121.9 points per game. The Lakers can’t rely solely on Dončić’s talent; solid play on both ends is necessary.
How Important Is the NBA Cup to the Lakers?
The Lakers appeared disinterested in their first NBA Cup game, which was an unfortunate tone given the excitement these games can generate. Friday’s game is essentially a must-win for them to remain in contention, as they currently stand at 0-1 with a concerning -17 point differential. Blowout wins will be necessary to improve their chances of moving forward. It’s a steep challenge but one the Lakers need to embrace if they want revenge over Portland.
Additional Notes and Updates:
- The Lakers and Warriors are the only teams from West Group C to have played in the NBA Cup so far, though standings will shift following Friday’s Spurs-Kings game.
- For Lakers injury updates, Sandro Mamukelashvili is questionable due to illness.
- Bronny James Jr. and Cameron Carr will be playing with the Coachella Valley Lakers in the G-League.
- The Blazers will miss Vit Krejci (left ankle fracture), Ja Morant (left hamstring strain), and Shaedon Sharpe (right meniscus surgery).
You can follow Nicole on Twitter at @nicoleganglan.
Fan Take:
This game is a must-watch for basketball fans because it not only showcases a fierce rivalry but also tests the Lakers’ ability to adapt and respond to early-season setbacks. How the Lakers handle Portland’s potent offense and missing Morant will offer insights into their potential trajectory this season and the evolving competitiveness of the NBA Cup.
Source: sports.yahoo.com
