The Los Angeles Lakers have been mediocre at best since winning the in-season tournament. They were 14-9 at one point in the season. However, an ugly 5-11 losing record turned the tide against them. One of their most embarrassing losses came on Thursday night against the Phoenix Suns, who swept them in a gut-wrenching 109-127 defeat. LeBron James had one of his worst performances since November 2021, as the Suns held the King to a mere 10 points while shooting 3 for 11. Anthony Davis was also abysmal with his 13 points.

The Lakers will now travel to Salt Lake City to meet the Utah Jazz for the second time this season. In their first meeting, the Lakers humbled the Jazz with a 32-point defeat. However, the landscape has shifted since then, as the Jazz, initially expected to tank, have transformed into one of the Western Conference’s most formidable teams. Currently enjoying a four-game winning streak, the Jazz pose a significant challenge for the Lakers tonight. Adding to the difficulty, the Lakers are grappling with a string of injuries, making a victory even more elusive in this matchup.

LeBron James and Anthony Davis appear on the injury report

The Lakers are monitoring six players on the injury report ahead of the game against the Jazz. LeBron James’ status has been demoted to questionable due to a peroneal tendinopathy in his left ankle. Anthony Davis is probable to play tonight as he continues to grapple with his left ankle sprain/bone bruise. In addition, Cam Reddish (left knee soreness) and D’Angelo Russell (right knee contusion) are also questionable, while Christian Wood (migraine) is probable. The only player ruled out is Gabe Vincent, who is tending to his left knee after undergoing a successful arthroscopic surgical procedure.

However, one positive update is that Rui Hachimura has been removed from the injury report, indicating that he will be suiting up tonight. The 25-year-old has missed five straight games after sustaining a calf injury on Dec. 31 against the New Orleans Pelicans.

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On the other side of the court, the Jazz has no reported injuries and will be fielding a healthy roster.

Los Angeles Lakers vs. Utah Jazz: Predicted starting lineups

The Lakers can start the game with Austin Reaves, Taurean Prince, Rui Hachimura, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Anthony Davis. The starting lineup for the Jazz side might feature Kris Dunn, Collin Sexton, Simone Fontecchio, Lauri Markkanen, and John Collins.

Although the Jazz were expected to trade away all their players at the upcoming trade deadline, they have turned their season around with a 20-20 record, which is good enough for a play-in spot. However, they’ll be playing a back-to-back set tonight after defeating the Toronto Raptors. Therefore, the Lakers will have the rest advantage and will be hoping for a win after losing to the Suns.

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What are your predictions for tonight’s game? Can the Jazz extend their winning streak to five? Or will the Lakers rain on their parade? Let us know in the comments!

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