The Western Division rivals, the Los Angeles Lakers and the Phoenix Suns will battle it out in the City of Angels for a ticket to Las Vegas. A shot at the NBA Cup hinges on the result of tonight’s high-stakes in-season tournament quarterfinal clash. The Suns are once again looking like a formidable fit since Devin Booker returned from his ankle injury. In their recent 116-109 win against the Memphis Grizzlies at home, Booker led the team with 34 points, 10 rebounds, and 7 assists. With both Kevin Durant and Booker expected to suit up tonight, the Suns will pose a significant challenge for the Lakers.

However, the Lakers will look for a win after splitting their last six games. Judging by Anthony Davis’ recent performances, it looks like he has brushed off the early-season rust and is back to his bubble championship form. However, one thing that might hinder their success tonight is the injury bug. That’s precisely what the Lakers’ latest injury report indicates. Now, the big question is: Why is LeBron James on the injury report before the quarterfinal contest?

Is LeBron James playing tonight?

The Lakers’ latest injury report indicates that LeBron James might miss out on the deciding matchup against the Suns. It is due to the lingering left calf contusion that he sustained on November 10th. The same injury has also been the cause of his appearance on virtually every one of the Lakers’ injury reports since. However, despite being listed as ‘questionable’ before the previous games, he has delivered consistently. Therefore, the Lakers faithful might find some solace in the fact that this might just be an injury scare.

To add to their injury woes, the injury report also mentions Anthony Davis and Jarred Vanderbilt. Davis is listed as ‘probable’ to play due to the hip spasms that have plagued him for some time now. Vanderbilt, who saw limited action (14 minutes) during his season debut against the Rockets, has returned to the injury list because of the same left heel bursitis.

However, there is also some positive news for the Lakers. Rui Hachimura is expected to log in a few minutes after suffering a nasal fracture on November 22nd during a game against the Dallas Mavericks. He ended up undergoing nasal surgery two days later but is probable to play now.

Bradley Beal will miss out on end-of-season awards

The Suns, on the other hand, will enter the contest healthier than they have been in a while. They will continue to miss the services of shooting guard Bradley Beal, who has only played three games this season. While there is still no timeline for his return, it’s unlikely to happen before mid-December.

Read More: Bradley Beal’s 816 Minutes NBA Absence Leaves Fans Shed Light on Positive Suns Run

This will mark the 18th game he has missed this season, rendering him ineligible for the end-of-season accolades. The NBA requires players to be present in at least 65 games to be considered for the awards.

What are your predictions for tonight’s clash at the Crypto Arena? Let us know in the comments!

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