The Los Angeles Lakers are among the NBA games that fans will enjoy on Christmas Day, with viewers hoping for an entertaining battle involving some of the league’s top stars.
Some have considered LeBron James and Kevin Durant in a rivalry during their careers, as both are among the NBA’s superstars. LeBron’s Lakers have been sputtering a bit lately, going 5-5 over their last 10 games, including recent back-to-back losses.
Those recent losses came with Luka Doncic out of the Lakers’ lineup, as he’s been sidelined with a left leg contusion he suffered several weeks ago. However, a significant update regarding Luka arrived on Wednesday, seemingly giving Lakers fans an early gift.
According to NBA insider Shams Charania, Doncic is expected to play in his team’s Christmas Day game versus Houston.
Charania reported that Luka was undergoing a workout, and if it went “smoothly,” he’d be on track to participate in the Lakers game.
Along with that, Luka will debut his new signature shoe, the Jordan Luka 5, on Thursday, another nice gift for fans to witness.
In addition, Charania revealed that New York Knicks fans would see their star guard, Jalen Brunson, on the court for the opening game of the Christmas Day schedule against the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Luka’s return comes at a much-needed time for a Lakers team that has lost its last two games. After dropping their game against the Los Angeles Clippers 103-88 last Saturday, they fell 132-108 to the Phoenix Suns last night.
Many have contended that the team is becoming Luka’s Lakers squad due to LeBron’s age and impending retirement. In 21 games this season, he's averaging 34.1 points, 8.6 rebounds, and 8.8 assists per game.
LeBron scored 36 in the team's loss to the Clippers and 23 against the Suns. However, Luka’s on-court performances often lift the team to wins, with LeBron able to serve as a second option and an additional playmaker.
In addition to having Luka back, Austin Reaves returned from an injury and came off the bench in Tuesday night’s loss to Phoenix.
Los Angeles currently holds a 19-9 record, and recently fell to fourth within the Western Conference standings after its losses. Meanwhile, the Suns are 17-10 and sitting in the sixth spot, suggesting both teams are potential playoff contenders next year.
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Newsweek