Lakers @ Jazz Preview
The Lakers (18-7) got a much-needed 3 days off and now return to action Thursday night. This time, they will be facing the Utah Jazz. LA has not won back-to-back games since the end of November, but it can change that tonight.
Here are the keys to a Lakers victory in a tough road environment.
Back at it after 3 full days off 💯
The Lakers have already beaten the Jazz twice this season… let’s make it 3-0 🙏 pic.twitter.com/mP18mYfFxj
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) December 18, 2025
Defensive Effort
Dave McMenamin of ESPN recently reported that JJ Redick asked both of his superstars, LeBron James and Luka Doncic, to show more effort on defense. The Lakers have been a bottom-10 defense in almost every major statistical category. They also know they need to be better on that end if they want to take the next step.
Tonight presents an excellent opportunity to begin that increase in effort, and output LA will be tested against a Jazz offense that is top 10 in points per game. Utah is also 2nd in assists per game. While the Jazz’s main star, Lauri Markkanen, will be out due to injury, that is no reason to get lazy defensively.
Depth and Bench Production
The Lakers will remain without Austin Reaves for Thursday’s matchup. They will also be without Deandre Ayton and Gabe Vincent. This means one of the league’s weaker bench groups will have to show up and provide depth.
With Ayton out, eyes immediately turn to Jaxson Hayes. Hayes has been impressive in his backup role this season. He is coming off a 12-point, 9-rebound effort against the Suns. Hayes will need another solid output if the Lakers want to win.
In terms of filling the holes left at the guard spot, Marcus Smart will have to be at least somewhat efficient on offense. In addition, a reserve like Nick Smith Jr. will have to be ready to play 15-25 minutes of meaningful basketball.
Late-Game Execution
The Lakers nearly choked a 20-point lead in 8 minutes against the Suns in their last matchup. They would have lost if not for a silly Dillon Brooks technical: that and Devin Booker’s foul on LeBron James.
Los Angeles must be better at closing out games. It was evident they took their foot off the gas in the final minutes. That almost cost them during a time in which every game matters, with how tight the West standings are.
The Lakers need to put in a full 48-minute effort. This requires recognizing that in the modern-day NBA, no lead is safe.
Wrap Up:
Tip-off for tonight is at 6:00 PM. A win would move the Lakers to 19-7 and keep them in 3rd place in the conference standings. They could also jump into a possible tie for second if the Nuggets lose.
Following the game in Utah, they will go back to LA to face the struggling Clippers.
