Lakers vs Thunder Preview: Snap Four-Game Losing Streak

The Lakers struggle with a four-game losing streak after winning an in-season tournament, facing challenges with injuries and lineup changes.

The Los Angeles Lakers have hit a rough patch, losing four games in a row after winning the In-Season Tournament. Their recent 118-111 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves saw Anthony Davis leading the team with 31 points and eight rebounds, supported by Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Taurean Prince with strong performances. Despite the loss, the team showed improvement in energy and effort, which is a step in the right direction.

The Lakers now face the Oklahoma City Thunder, who have a strong 10-4 record at home and previously defeated the Lakers 133-110. Injuries have been a challenge for the Lakers, but with key players returning to the lineup, there is hope for improvement.

Darvin Ham is experimenting with a change to the starting lineup, with Jarred Vanderbilt taking D'Angelo Russell's spot. Russell has struggled in recent games, and the lineup change is aimed at improving the team's performance. However, the lack of spacing with Vanderbilt and Cam Reddish in the lineup may present challenges for LeBron James and Anthony Davis.

Despite the lineup change, the Lakers need to focus on defense and getting stops against the Thunder's explosive offense. It will be interesting to see how Russell responds to being benched and whether he can earn his starting spot back. The key reserves for the Lakers in this game will be D'Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Rui Hachimura, while the Thunder will rely on Cason Wallace, Aaron Wiggins, and Kenrich Williams.