Lakers Vs. Magic Preview: Teams Shorthanded for Road Trip

The Los Angeles Lakers face the Orlando Magic in a rematch, with both teams dealing with injuries to key players.

The Los Angeles Lakers are embarking on a four-game road trip, beginning with a rematch against the Orlando Magic at Crypto.com Arena. In their previous encounter, the Lakers emerged victorious with a close 106-103 win, but the young Magic displayed resilience and should not be underestimated in this upcoming game.

D'Angelo Russell led the charge for the Lakers in the last game, showcasing his efficiency with 28 points and eight assists. Anthony Davis also made a significant impact on both ends of the court, contributing 26 points, 19 rebounds, five assists, one steal, and three blocks.

On the other side, the Magic had a balanced scoring effort with six players reaching double figures. Gary Harris stood out with 17 points, displaying flawless shooting from beyond the arc, going 5-of-5.

However, this upcoming game may see some changes as both teams are dealing with injuries to key players. The Lakers remain severely shorthanded, with Taurean Prince, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, Gabe Vincent, and Jalen Hood-Schifino still sidelined. Although Prince was listed as questionable, he will miss his second consecutive game due to left patellar tendinitis. With only eight healthy players available, Cam Reddish, Max Christie, Christian Wood, and Jaxson Hayes should continue to receive extended playing time.

The Magic are also missing key contributors, with Wendell Carter Jr. and Gary Harris ruled out. Markelle Fultz's availability is uncertain, and a game-time decision will determine his participation. In the absence of their guards, the Magic may turn to the sixth overall pick, Anthony Black, for minutes, alongside veteran Joe Ingles. Black impressed in the Magic's recent victory over the Utah Jazz, scoring nine points in just 16 minutes off the bench and recording two steals while making all four of his shot attempts.

Sitting at a 3-2 record, the Lakers hope to gain momentum on this road trip and establish themselves in the highly competitive Western Conference. Davis, Russell, and LeBron James are finding their rhythm, and Austin Reaves showed signs of breaking out of his early-season shooting slump in the Lakers' recent win against the L.A. Clippers.

Given the absence of several key players, the Lakers will continue to rely on their remaining roster, particularly utilizing big lineups involving Wood and Hayes. This strategic approach will be crucial against the Magic, who boast one of the tallest lineups in the league.

Key Reserves for the Lakers include Jaxson Hayes, Christian Wood, and Max Christie, while the Magic will rely on Cole Anthony, Jonathan Isaac, Anthony Black, and Goga Bitadze to contribute off the bench.