Seeking to maintain their precarious hold on a coveted play-in spot in the Western Conference, the Los Angeles Lakers are now confronted with the challenge of facing the Atlanta Hawks at home on Monday without their top two players.
Lakers forward Anthony Davis is uncertain for Monday’s match due to a corneal abrasion that forced him out of Saturday’s 128-121 defeat to the Golden State Warriors after just one quarter. Meanwhile, LeBron James, who has been consistently listed on the injury report recently due to ankle soreness, is once again questionable.
Following the All-Star break, Los Angeles was optimistic about their performance, with Davis expressing confidence in their ability to defeat any opponent “if we play the right way.” However, the team has suffered consecutive losses since then, with Saturday’s game unraveling after Davis’s departure. Despite leading 36-30 after the first quarter, the Lakers trailed by halftime and were outscored in the third quarter, ultimately succumbing to Golden State’s dominance.Leeds United’s Summer Transfer Dilemma: Assessing the Future of Loaned-Out Players
James acknowledged the impact of Davis’s absence on the team’s dynamics, noting the challenge it presents to their established rotations. Despite slipping to 10th place in the Western Conference standings after the loss, the Lakers still occupy the final play-in tournament berth.
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Meanwhile, the Hawks (30-37) have also grappled with injury setbacks but managed to boost their playoff hopes with a convincing 110-93 victory over the Clippers on Sunday. Trae Young missed his 11th consecutive game due to finger surgery, yet Atlanta displayed a strong offensive performance, capitalizing on their defensive efforts.
Dejounte Murray led the charge for the Hawks with 21 points and 10 assists, supported by contributions from De’Andre Hunter, Jalen Johnson, and Clint Capela. Despite Bogdan Bogdanovic’s return from illness, his departure during the game raises concerns for the team.
With a 6-5 record since Young’s absence, the Hawks are gearing up for a five-game homestand following their matchups against the Lakers and the Phoenix Suns on Thursday.VAR Drama: West Ham Held to Draw by Aston Villa Despite Late Disallowed Winner
