Monta Ellis may have to cover the bulk of the attention, as Stephen Curry is questionable with an ankle injury. If he does give it a go, the Lakers' new-look defense will have a big test against one of the best backcourts in basketball.
Andrew Bynum has looked like an All-Star center in his first few games, and the defense has been superb at times.
The game will come down to Kobe Bryant and how much he can give with the lingering wrist issue. With that, let's delve deeper into this Friday night spectacular.
Where: Staples Center, Los Angeles, CA
When: Friday, January 6th, 10:30 p.m. ET
Watch: Fox Sports West, NBA League Pass (prices start at $29.95)
Listen: Warriors Radio affiliates info here; Lakers Radio 710 AM ESPN
Betting Line: according to Betonline.com, Lakers -10.5
Key Injuries:
Golden State Lakers: Andris Biedrins C (day-to-day); David Lee PF (Jan 5, according to ESPN); Stephen Curry, ankle (questionable, according to LA Times).
L.A. Lakers: No significant injuries, according to ESPN.
What's At Stake?
These are two teams that are in desperate need of a win. The Warriors have dropped three straight and the Lakers have been dealt two losses in the past three games. The Lakers need this win to prove their great start was not all smoke and mirrors.
What They're Saying:
Rusty Simmons of the San Francisco Chronicle reports on the Warriors' desire for Dwight Howard. "The right ankle of Warriors point guard Stephen Curry is officially an issue, one that is going to create an immediate opportunity for Nate Robinson and ...
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Los Angeles Lakers
