Lakers Look to Bounce Back Against 76ers
The Los Angeles Lakers are coming off a blowout loss to the Boston Celtics on Friday, dropping their record to 16-6.
The Lakers will look to bounce back on Sunday in a matchup against the Philadelphia 76ers. Philadelphia is on a three-game winning streak, setting up a challenging matchup for LA.
Let’s break down the keys for the Lakers to pick up a victory over the 76ers.
LeBron is expected to play tonight in Philly 👀
LAL gets their star duo back. pic.twitter.com/UNYj50vusn
— Lakers All Day Everyday (@LADEig) December 7, 2025
Luka Doncic and LeBron James Return
LA will benefit from getting two of its stars back, as Luka Doncic and LeBron James will return to the lineup.
Doncic missed the last two games as he was in Slovenia for the birth of his second child. James missed Friday’s game against the Celtics as they are still holding him out on back-to-backs.
With both of them back in the lineup, it will make it easier on Austin Reaves, as he won’t be relied upon as the only creator on offense.
The offense should flow better with Doncic and James back, as LA managed only 105 points against Boston.
Containing Tyrese Maxey
For years, Joel Embiid was the main threat to focus on when playing against the 76ers. While Embiid is still one of their best players and a tough cover, Tyrese Maxey has emerged as Philadelphia’s number one option.
Maxey is averaging 31.6 points per game, along with 4.6 rebounds, 7.1 assists, and 1.7 steals. He is shooting 46.7% from the field and 38.2% from three.
With their best perimeter defender, Marcus Smart, out, the Lakers will rely on a team effort to stop Maxey. Head coach JJ Redick will likely have a scheme ready to throw different coverages at the star guard.
Bench Contributions
All season long, the Lakers have had great production from their starters, but the bench unit has struggled. With the team at full strength, with the exception of Smart, they will need their role players to step up.
Jake LaRavia and Jaxson Hayes are two players who will need their impact to be felt. Doncic has great chemistry with Hayes, and they will look to connect on lobs.
LaRavia has been a solid 3&D player for the Lakers, and they will rely on him on Sunday.
The Lakers have been one of the best teams in the NBA this season, and they have a great opportunity to bounce back with a win over the 76ers.
