Match details-

Fixture: Los Angeles Lakers vs Phoenix Suns

Date & Time: Wednesday, January 1, 2020, 10:30 PM ET (Thursday, 3:30 AM GMT)

Venue: Staples Center, Los Angeles

Preview-

The Los Angeles Lakers had finally managed to end their losing streak. After losing four consecutive games, they have won their last two, rather comfortably, against Portland Trail Blazers and Dallas Mavericks.  And facing teams from the bottom half of the league table, they will be expecting to stitch together another decent winning streak. The Lakers will be playing their next four games at home against Phoenix Suns, New Orleans Pelicans, Detroit Pistons, and New York Knicks. Despite their recent blip, the Lakers are still on top of the Western Conference with a win-loss record of 26-7.

Their New Year day’s opponents, Phoenix Suns, sit 10th in the Western Conference having won 13 games in 23 so far. Like Lakers, the Suns have also won their last two games. The are their only two victories in their last 10 games. They begin the New Year with a tough fixture in Los Angeles.

Injury updates & team news-

Los Angeles Lakers-

Injuries: Anthony Davis (Shoulder)- Probable, DeMarcus Cousins (Knee)- Out

Expected starting lineup: Danny Gee, Avery Bradley, LeBron James, Anthony Davis, JaVale McGee

Phoenix Suns-

Injuries: Frank Kaminsky (Knee)- Questionable

Expected starting lineup: Ricky Rubio, Devin Booker, Darion Saric, Kelly Oubre Jr., Aron Baynes

Predictions-

In their last victory over the Trail Blazers, the Suns were led on the offence by Devin Booker. he finished with 33 points, seven assists and six rebounds on the night. He was supported by Kellu Oubre Jr.’s 29 points. When the Suns come out for the first time in 2020, they will also have DeAndre Ayton fit and running. This might make them look a little stronger, but it might not be enough for them to beat the Lakers.