Defending champions Los Angeles Lakers face off against the Portland Trail Blazers tonight at 10:00 PM EST in a game which might have major implications in the regular season standings.

The Lakers, who had a rather impressive win against the Nuggets, were absolutely dominated by the Clippers in their last game, who beat them 118-94. All the damage was done in the first quarter as superstar Anthony Davis went off the court due to back spasms. But after the game, AD assured that he will play tomorrow. The Lakers need the team to bring their A-game against the Blazers tomorrow. With their regular season record tied, a victory will be essential in building a gap between them and the seventh seeded Blazers.

The Blazers, meanwhile, came back to winning ways with a blowout 141-105 victory against the Cavaliers. Damian Lillard finally is looking like the ‘Dame Dolla’ we have come to expect as he put up a 32-point performance against the Cavs. With a rather healthy squad available, the Blazers have the perfect opportunity to leapfrog the Lakers to become the sixth seed in the West and directly qualify for the playoffs.

Predications

The Lakers and the Blazers face off against each other for the third time this season. With their regular season record tied at 1-1, this game will be essential to finally settle the score between the two Western Conference powerhouses. The Lakers have a rather depleted side at their disposal and are also coming off a loss. Considering the players available and the form available, the Blazers surely have an edge in this regular season classic.

Los Angeles Lakers: Injury updates and lineup prediction

The Lakers have some injury concerns. Dennis Schroder is sidelined adhering to the league’s health and safety protocols, while veteran Jared Dudley is out indefinitely with a knee problem. LeBron James is also out as he recovers from ankle soreness. Sophomore Talen Horton-Tucker is sidelined due to a calf injury.

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With their record tied with the Blazers at 37 wins and 29 losses, this is a must win for the champions if they want to avoid the play-in tournament.

Probable Lineups

Alex Caruso (G)

Kentavious Caldwell Pope (G)

Kyle Kuzma (F)

Anthony Davis (F)

Andre Drummond (C)

Portland Trail Blazers: Injury updates and lineup prediction

The Blazers have some minor injury concerns as they face the Lakers. Backup center Zach Collins is sidelined through an ankle injury. Even guard Norman Powell is out as he recovers from a knee injury.

Damian Lillard and Co. need this win against the Lakers at any cost. Can Lillard lead his team to a victory against a short-handed Lakers?

Probable Lineup

Damian Lillard (G)

CJ McCollum (G)

Nassir Little (F)

Robert Covington (F)

Jusuf Nurkic (C)

Who do you think will win between the Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Lakers?