Lakers vs Blazers Preview: Can L.A. end their losing streak?

With the Lakers struggling, a matchup versus the Blazers can help them earn a win and get back on track.

The Lakers are back in Los Angeles after losing three straight during a four-game road trip.

Home will certainly feel sweet for the Lakers and with the 8-15 Blazers coming to town on Sunday, L.A. will have a great opportunity to beat up on one of the weaker teams in the league and end this losing streak.

Start time and TV schedule

Who: Los Angeles Lakers vs. Blazers

When: 6:30 p.m. PT, Dec 8

Where: Crypto.com Arena

Watch: Spectrum SportsNet

Entering this game, the Lakers have had very few positives happening within the team.

It’s not just that they’ve lost seven of their last nine games, but how they’ve dropped games that’s been frustrating. Their most recent loss against the Hawks is a prime example. Poor late-game execution resulted in Trae Young hitting a wide-open, game-winning 3-pointer.

With Austin Reaves still doubtful to return and JJ Redick trying different starting lineups but getting the same results, expect heavy usage from LeBron James and Anthony Davis in this game.

The two stars have embraced taking accountability for the team’s poor performances and walked the walk in Atlanta.

The duo combined for 77 points, 20 rebounds and 19 assists and if they can replicate those results on Sunday, they’ll leave Crytpo with a win.

The rebuilding Blazers

Luckily for the Lakers, their opponent is in the middle of a rebuild, struggling to earn wins. That doesn’t mean this game will be a breeze for Los Angeles. To win, they’ll have to contain the trio of Shaedon Sharpe, Anfernee Simons and Jerami Grant.

These three can score in bunches around the perimeter and the Lakers have shown an inability to defend guards and wings well.

Another player to watch is Deandre Ayton, who, when he’s playing his best, applies pressure on the rim and can dominate inside. L.A. allows 52.4 points per game inside, which is the third most in the NBA.

Even so, the Lakers should win against the Blazers. They are playing at home and still have a huge talent gap between themselves and Portland. It’s been a while since Los Angeles has played 48 good minutes of basketball, but facing Portland provides the best opportunity to do so and get a feel-good win.

Notes and Updates

• For the Lakers’ injury report, Anthony Davis (left plantar fasciitis) is listed as probable while LeBron (left foot soreness) is on the report labeled as questionable.
• Austin Reaves (left pelvic contusion) is listed as doubtful.
• Jaxson Hayes (right ankle sprain/contusion), Austin Reaves (left pelvic contusion), Jarred Vanderbilt (right foot surgery recovery) and Christian Wood (left knee surgery recovery) are all out.
• As for the Blazers, Toumani Camara (right foot sprain) and Duop Reath (back soreness) are doubtful and Scoot Henderson (left quad contusion) is questionable to play.
• Donovan Clingan (left knee sprain), Matisse Thybulle (right ankle sprain) and Robert Williams III (concussion protocol) are all out.
• We will be live on Playback for this game, so be sure to join us!

You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88.