The LA Lakers host the Milwaukee Bucks on Friday. Injury-riddled for most of the season, LA has another up-and-down report ahead of this blockbuster clash. LeBron James and Rui Hachimura will be in the spotlight as they are questionable.
Their chances of suiting up are 50-50, and they will likely be game-time decisions. James missed Wednesday’s game against the Spurs, citing right sciatica and left foot arthritis, two lingering ailments he will manage during the season.
The 41-year-old was questionable for that contest before being ruled out. It was also the second night of a back-to-back, and James has yet to play one of those. While there will be some optimism that he returns, the Lakers listing him as questionable raises slight concerns.
Meanwhile, Hachimura has missed five straight games due to a calf strain. He’s on track to return, according to the updates provided by the Lakers on his timeline. However, LA might take a cautious approach and only let him play if he’s good to go before tip off.
Austin Reaves and Adou Thiero round off the Lakers’ injury report. Reaves is sidelined with a calf strain for at least two more weeks, while rookie Thiero is out with an MCL sprain.
Where to watch Bucks vs. Lakers?
The Bucks-Lakers game will be live on NBA TV. FanDuel Sports Network Wisconsin and Spectrum SportsNet will provide coverage in local regions. Other viewers can stream the game online via NBA League Pass from 10:30 p.m. ET. The game is at Crypto.com Arena in LA.
It’s the second and final regular-season meeting between the Bucks and Lakers. LA won 119-95 in the previous matchup on Nov. 15 in Milwaukee. Luka Doncic paved the way with 41 points, while Austin Reaves had 25 points and eight assists. LeBron James didn’t play in that game as he was recovering from sciatica.
For Friday’s game, the Lakers are 2.5-point favorites to win. They are 3-1 in their last four games and have homecourt advantage. The Bucks are comparatively healthier, so it could be a close contest.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
