GAME PREVIEW AND INJURY REPORT: Brooklyn Nets vs. Los Angeles Lakers

The Nets are set to have a tough game ahead with the Los Angeles Lakers.

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After the Nets’ last-second loss to the Portland Trail Blazers, Brooklyn needs to bounce back. The team visits the Crypto.com Arena to play against the Los Angeles Lakers in another challenging matchup.

LA’s momentum is strong heading into this game as the Lakers are fresh off two big wins against the second-seeded OKC Thunder and the sixth-seeded Dallas Mavericks. A confident Lakers squad poses a problem for Coach Jacque Vaughn and his struggling team.

This game can be a golden opportunity for Brooklyn

The Lakers’ superstars LeBron James and Anthony Davis’ statuses are up in the air because they’re both dealing with ankle injuries. The duo is not confirmed to sit out the game, but the possibility of them missing the matchup bodes well for the Nets.

Brooklyn should not be complacent because the Lakers still have talented players. Austin Reaves is a threat to the Nets defense with his scoring prowess. The game gets even more challenging if LeBron and AD are there. Coach JV’s squad has defenders who can match up, but it’s almost impossible to keep both superstars from dominating the game.

Brooklyn will rely on Dorian Finney-Smith and Dennis Smith Jr. for perimeter defense. Nic Claxton roaming the paint and thriving on switches will be crucial in helping the team get the win. Limiting most of the Lakers’ players is possible, especially if the Nets play with high energy and a fast pace.

On offense, Mikal Bridges and Cameron Thomas will be vital in getting the win. Thomas struggled in their last game against the Blazers, but he’s due for a strong game, especially against a Lakers team with mediocre perimeter defense to limit his scoring.

Injury Report

The Nets are still missing Ben Simmons and Day’Ron Sharpe, the two players are out with a nerve impingement and a hyperextended knee. However, Bridges is listed as probable with a right shin contusion after a collision with Jabari Walker. Expect Mikal to play because he still has the streak of not missing any games he started in high school.

Los Angeles has Cameron Reddish and Gabe Vincent out with knee injuries. LeBron James is questionable with an ankle issue, while LA’s second superstar, Anthony Davis is probable for this matchup due to another ankle issue.

This will be a fun matchup for both teams, LA is looking to extend the winning streak, and Brooklyn is eager to win a game. 

Nic Claxton is keeping his head high as the reeling Nets suffer a new loss to the Blazers