Lakers vs. Kings Preview
The Los Angeles Lakers (35-24) will look to sweep the weekend as they take on the Sacramento Kings (14-47) on Sunday night.
It will be the fourth and final time the two teams collide this season. The Lakers lead the series 2-1.
Rui Hachimura Returns
After missing the past two games with an illness, Rui Hachimura will return to the lineup on Sunday.
Los Angeles will get back the 11.7 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 0.9 assists he’s averaged this season.
LeBron James (Arthritis) Listed AS Questionable
The Lakers may have to go without LeBron James in this one. He is dealing with left foot arthritis and is listed as questionable.
If he’s unable to suit up, expect a combination of Jake LaRavia, Rui Hachimura, Maxi Kleber, and Jarred Vanderbilt to help fill the void.
Deandre Ayton’s Struggles
Hopefully, the new month helps flip the script for Los Angeles center Deandre Ayton.
The first-year Laker has grown frustrated with how head coach JJ Redick has utilized him this season.
“They’re trying to make me Clint Capela, I’m not no Clint Capela,” Ayton told reporters earlier this week.
He basically took a shot at the veteran center who’s now with the Houston Rockets.
February wasn’t the best month for Ayton. He averaged 8.9 points and 7.8 rebounds. It’s worth noting that he scored 10 or more points in just four of nine games.
Kings Continue to Struggle
The expectation for tonight’s game is for the Lakers to come out with the win. Sacramento has the worst record in the NBA at 14-47 and is 2-17 over its last 19 games.
With De’Andre Hunter, Zach LaVine, and Domantas Sabonis in line to miss the rest of the season, the Kings appear to be a tanking team.
The Lakers are hovering near the play-in line. After going 5-5 over their 10 games, Los Angeles holds a 1.5-game lead over the Phoenix Suns for the final postseason spot in the West.
