The Lakers (47-18) are back on the road after a brief homestand as they face the Phoenix Suns (40-25).
Although the Lakers beat Toronto, 109-107, Kobe & company felt it was too close for comfort. Bryant scored the game-winning field goal after Chris Bosh’s three-pointer tied the game.
So tonight, L.A. feels it is now or never to right the ship.
The Lakers have not played well against playoff contending teams this season. If they plan to contend for a second consecutive NBA title, this may be the last chance this season to pull it off.
Phoenix has gone 8-2 over their last 10 games, and 14 of the last 18. But they have had their share of struggles as well, with their most recent losses coming from the West’s top eight teams.
Defense is always a focal point on the Lakers’ agenda. It will be criticial for them to stop the league’s highest scoring team; averaging 109.5 a contest and 40 percent from 3-point territory.
Consistency will also be key. They’ve had problem playing both ends of the floor at a high level.
PROJECTED STARTERS:
LAKERS:
(C) A. Bynum
(PF) P. Gasol
(SF) R. Artest
(SG) K. Bryant
(PG) D. Fisher
Injuries:
S. Vujacic is day-to-day.
SUNS:
(C) R. Lopez
(PF) A. Stoudemire
(SF) G. Hill
(SG) J. Richardson
(PG) S. Nash
Injuries:
L. Barbosa is out.
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