The San Antonio Spurs face a challenging matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers as Jeremy Sochan, Kelly Olynyk, and Lindy Waters III could return to the lineup. The Spurs' promising 5-0 start took a hit after a 116-97 defeat to the Phoenix Suns, who were short-handed themselves.
During that game, the Spurs lost Dylan Harper to a calf strain, likely sidelining him for a couple of weeks. The team hopes to regain momentum with reinforcements for their game in Los Angeles.
The Lakers enter this game on a four-game winning streak despite missing key players. LeBron James has yet to play this season, while Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves have both been sidelined at times.
For Wednesday's game, Doncic is expected to play, and Reaves is questionable. Both players are having standout seasons, with Doncic averaging 41.3 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 8.3 assists per game, and Reaves contributing 31.3 points and 9.3 assists per game.
"They’ve driven the Lakers’ offense to a top-10 rating in the NBA."
San Antonio will need every available player to contend with such an offensively potent Lakers team.
Author’s summary: The Spurs look to rebound with returning players against a hot Lakers team led by Luka Doncic’s stellar performance, highlighting the critical impact of injuries on both sides.