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Doncic Out? Lakers Face Hawks in Crucial Clash
14 Jan
Summary
- Lakers (23-14) face Hawks (20-21) in a critical Western Conference matchup.
- Luka Doncic is questionable with a groin injury, impacting Lakers' defense.
- Hawks seek a season sweep after defeating Lakers by 20 points previously.
The Los Angeles Lakers, holding a 23-14 record and the No. 5 seed in the Western Conference, are preparing to face the Atlanta Hawks, who are ninth in the East at 20-21. This contest carries significant weight, especially with Luka Doncic listed as questionable due to a groin injury sustained in their recent loss to the Kings. His potential absence could severely hamper the Lakers' already bottom-half defense against the Hawks' potent offense.
The Hawks enter this rematch with confidence, having previously handled the Lakers by a commanding 122-102 on November 8. They are operating with newfound momentum, particularly after their recent trade for CJ McCollum, which sent Trae Young to the Wizards. The Hawks boast a high-powered offense, averaging 118.4 points per game with a strong three-point shooting percentage of 37.4%, and excel at ball movement with 31.2 assists per game.
Both teams are battling multiple injuries. For the Lakers, LeBron James is questionable with foot and sciatica issues, while Kristaps Porzingis and Zaccharie Risacher are out. The Lakers will rely on players like Deandre Ayton and Marcus Smart to control the paint and disrupt the Hawks' offense. Conversely, the Hawks are looking to Nickeil Alexander-Walker and Onyeka Okongwu to maintain their offensive rhythm and defensive presence.
