The defense for the Lakers officially gets underway on Friday. The Purple and Gold will hold their NBA Cup debut against the newly improved San Antonio Spurs. It’s a clash of the veterans with Chris Paul and LeBron James. Then there is the enticing matchup of Anthony Davis and Victor Wembanyama. In the game of two legacy organizations, the tangibles make for a night of lively basketball.

The Los Angeles Lakers are trying to solidify their foundations. JJ Redick’s new ideologies have led to an improvement for the franchise. Currently sitting at 7-4, they are fresh off a hard-earned victory against the Grizzlies. LeBron James posted his third straight triple-double that included a masterful 35 points and 14 assists. The Lakers will have their three-game win streak at stake.

Their opponents, too, have been on a colossal run.

The Spurs have had to deal with great distress with Gregg Popovich suffering from a health issue. While he won’t join them on the sidelines, Wembanyama has grown as a leader. Over the past three games, he has splashed at least six threes. In the latest game, he barraged his career-high, exploding for 50 against the Wizards.

Interim coach Mitch Johnson has impressed the group around him, earning the support of the players. Spurs sit at .500, the 10th seed in the West. Although a worse record than their foes, do they have an advantage in going into the NBA Cup game?

San Antonio Spurs injury report

There are a few concerning absences that may affect the Spurs. Jeremy Sochan suffered a fracture on his left thumb against the Clippers early in November. He is set to undergo surgery without a return timeline yet. Additionally, they will also be without their secondary facilitator, Tre Jones, because of a sprained right ankle.

However, the Spurs have enjoyed the company of some returning contributors. In particular, Devin Vassell, a talented young scorer, marked his return after missing the early part of the season recovering from right foot surgery. His shooting threat plays well with Wemby, who has looked unflappable over a three-game stretch.

Los Angeles Lakers injury report

The Lakers have a long list of injuries that may alter the outcome of their game against the rejuvenated San Antonio Spurs. To start with the most influential, two-way forward Rui Hachimura is questionable for the NBA Cup clash on Friday. Shooting a scorching 50% from three, he is suffering from a right ankle sprain.

Redick could miss his tenacity and physical defense against a smooth-running Spurs team. Furthermore, Anthony Davis is also listed but is probable to start. Other absences include Jaxson Hayes, Christian Wood, and Jared Vanderbilt, all of whom are out for several weeks.

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San Antonio Spurs depth chart

Los Angeles Lakers depth chart

Given the talent the Lakers hoard and the harmony they have attained over the last few games, they can get past the Spurs. Wembanyama’s enforcing spell does pose a threat. However, he won’t have a comfortable night with Anthony Davis sticking to him. Furthermore, LeBron James has rediscovered his shooting rhythm after a slow start to the season.

Also, since Cam Reddish has been promoted to the starting lineup, the Lakers’ defense has improved. Over three games, they have posted a 113 defensive rating, marginally better than their season average.

Who do you think wins tomorrow? Let us know your views in the comments below.