NBA 2018-19: Predicted Starting Lineups and Match Prediction - Philadelphia 76ers vs Los Angeles Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers will host the Philadelphia 76ers for their final game of the four-game homestand before they hit the road for six straight games. This will be the first time these two teams meet this season.
The Los Angeles Lakers' perspective
The Lakers finally ended their three-game skid with the 116-102 win against the Phoenix Suns. Even though the team did not have Kyle Kuzma who missed the game due to a hip injury, Michael Beasley, who started in his place, scored eight points and dished out six dimes to help the team.
Rajon Rondo, who put together a double-double in his return game against the T-Wolves, once again shone and scored eight points to go along with 11 assists. In the absence of expert play makers - LeBron James and Lonzo Ball, a lot of pressure will be on Rondo to perform and help this team get some wins.
The Lakers find themselves at the ninth spot in the Western Conference at 26-24 and they have struggled to get it going in the absence of LeBron. However, they can't keep waiting for James to return and need to bring out their A-game.
Predicted Los Angeles Lakers' starting line-up
Brandon Ingram (F), Kyle Kuzma (F), Ivica Zubac (C), Rajon Rondo (G) and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope
The Philadelphia 76ers' perspective
The Philadelphia 76ers are 9-4 in January and have looked really good. Led by Joel Embiid, who is averaging a monster double-double over the season, the Sixers hold a 32-18 record and are placed at the fourth spot in the East.
With a tough schedule coming up after the game against the Lakers, they need to capitalise on the LeBron-less Lakers and get the win. They are coming off a tough loss against the Denver Nuggets and a win here will bring back some lost momentum.
Predicted Philadelphia 76ers' starting line-up:
Wilson Chandler (F), Jimmy Butler (F), Joel Embiid (C), Ben Simmons (G) and JJ Redick (G)
How the things might unfold
With Butler and Chandler expected to return back to the starting lineup, the 76ers will have all five starters available and that itself will lift their spirits. The Lakers have the talent but without the best player in the NBA, they are not the same team and are expected to struggle against a tough opponent like the 76ers.
Prediction
Philadelphia 76ers for the win.
Also read: Bucks Trade Rumors Roundup, January 28th
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Also read: NBA Trade Rumors Roundup, January 28th