The red-hot Lakers look to extend their impressive winning streak to eight games as they host the Knicks Thursday night at Crypto.com Arena. Tip-off is set for 10:00 p.m. ET.
LeBron James and the Lakers have been unstoppable since trading for Luka Doncic, turning into one of the NBA’s most dangerous teams. Only the Cavaliers’ 12-game streak is longer right now.
The game will air on TNT and NBA League Pass, with Jazz Sports offering a free live stream option.
The Lakers enter as 4-point favorites, but this one could be closer than the odds suggest.
Both teams are dealing with some injury concerns. LeBron (foot) and Doncic (knee) are likely to play, though they’re listed as probable. The Lakers will be without Rui Hachimura (knee) and Maxi Kleber (foot).
The Knicks have their own health issues to sort out. They’re waiting on game-time decisions for Precious Achiuwa (hamstring), Mitchell Robinson (ankle), and OG Anunoby (thumb).
Karl-Anthony Towns is expected back after missing Tuesday’s loss to the Warriors for personal reasons. His return couldn’t come at a better time as New York kicks off a tough five-game road trip.
The third-seeded Knicks have had a rough go lately against the league’s elite teams. They’ve dropped games to the Cavaliers, Celtics (twice), and these same Lakers in recent weeks.
But here’s what makes this matchup interesting: While the Lakers have won the last two meetings, both those games were at Madison Square Garden. The Knicks have actually won their last two visits to LA.
The Lakers’ transformation since the Doncic trade has been remarkable. They’re not just winning โ they’re looking like serious contenders in the Western Conference.
With both teams at full strength and plenty on the line, this late-night showdown could be one of the week’s best games. The five-point spread feels just about right for what should be a back-and-forth battle.
