As the NBA kicks off its 76th edition, the 2021-22 season promises to be very engaging. The pre-season matches begin on Sunday, with a blockbuster clash between the Los Angeles Lakers and Brooklyn Nets. It will be a mouth-watering battle, with both sides aiming to brush up their games ahead of the regular season. Here’s all you need to know about the encounter.

LA Lakers vs Brooklyn Nets: Predicted lineups

In the first game of the campaign, the Lakers will host the Nets at the Staples Center. Neither of the sides is expected to be at full strength, as they are still preparing to attain match fitness. Therefore, we cannot expect an all-out slug fest in this battle. The big names like LeBron James, James Harden, Kyrie Irving and Kevin Durant will not feature on Sunday, It is thus an opportunity for the younger stars to shine, and seal a potential spot in the starting five.

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For the Lakers, James and the new recruits will be missing in action. They are still resting, which means that center-forward Anthony Davis is likely to lead the squad. He is pitted to start as a forward, while the youngsters build around him. Meanwhile, the big-3 won’t be travelling with the Nets, as confirmed by Steve Nash. Blake Griffin and Patty Mills aren’t ready as well. This calls for a totally next-gen five, with Paul Millsap likely to assume leadership duties.

Lakers predicted five: Anthony Davis (Forward), Talen Horton-Tucker (Forward), Malik Monk (Guard), Kendrick Nunn (Guard), DeAndre Jordan (Center).

Nets predicted five: Paul Millsap (Forward), LaMarcus Aldridge (Forward), Jevon Carter (Guard), Cam Thomas (Guard), Nicolas Claxton (Center).

Los Angeles vs Brooklyn NBA pre-season: When to watch, Prediction

The pre-season encounter between the Lakers and Nets will happen on Sunday in LA. The start timing for the encounter is 12:30 PM PT, 3:30 PM ET, or 1:00 AM IST on Monday. The game will be showcased on NBA TV worldwide, while fans can also access streaming via the NBA League Pass. Along with this, some local coverage or VPN may function.

Since both setups are coming out fresh, it is tough to predict the outcome of this match-up. Yet, the Lakers will always start off as favorites, considering they have some amount of seniority. For the Nets, it is a new set of players, and their main men will be absent. If Davis starts and starts strong, it is hard to overlook the yellow brigade in this tussle.

Prediction: LA Lakers to triumph over the Brooklyn Nets

Get your snacks ready for this spine-tingling encounter on Sunday. What do you think the outcome of the match will be? Leave your predictions in the comments below.

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