Los Angeles Lakers begin their five-game road trip through the Eastern Conference with the NBA game against Toronto Raptors. While looking at the last 10 games of both the teams, it is clear that both the injury-ravaged teams are in a downward spiral. So, they will be looking to turn it around as the battle for the playoff positions heats up.

Date & Time: April 6, 2021, 6:30 pm ET

Venue: Amalie Arena, Tampa, Florida

Preview & Injury Report | Lakers

The Lakers are coming off the back of a humbling loss by their bitter cross-town rivals. They looked toothless in their defeat to the Clippers with the trio of LeBron James, Anthony Davis and Andre Drummond out injured.

While all three of them will travel with the squad, their availability for this game will not be possible. LeBron James will continue to sit out with his high ankle sprain. Although Anthony Davis has ramped up his practice regime, the staff is still cautious with regards to his return on the court.

Andre Drummond is questionable with a right toe contusion, so Marc Gasol will have a huge role to play. In their absence, however, the likes of Kyle Kuzma and Dennis Schroder need to step up or they risk falling out of the top four and abandoning home-court advantage for the playoffs.

Starting 5 for the Lakers

Guard – Dennis Schroder

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Guard – Kentavious Caldwell-Pope

Center – Marc Gasol

Forward – Markieff Morris

Forward – Kyle Kuzma

Preview & Injury Report | Raptors

The Raptors are no better in the injury department than their counterparts. Both Kyle Lowry and Fred VanVleet did not take to the court in the team’s previous game. Although, the outcome wasn’t similar to the Lakers as they capitulated the Warriors.

Pascal Siakam got going as he scored 36 points in that 53-point win. And they carried over the momentum as they also beat the Wizards. They will look to continue that run as they eye a playoff berth.

Starting 5 for the Raptors

Guard – DeAndre’ Bembry

Guard – Gary Trent Jr.

Center – Chris Boucher

Forward – OG Anunoby

Forward – Pascal Siakam

Predictions | Raptors vs Lakers

Because the Raptors arrive into this game with consecutive wins in their kitty, they edge their rivals as the favorites for this matchup. However, it could still be a close affair as the Lakers learn to play without their star duo.

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