Wizards, Lakers Clash Amidst Struggles
The Los Angeles Lakers will host the Washington Wizards at Staples Center on Tuesday evening.

The Lakers (32-41) picked up just their third win since the All-Star Break on Sunday, taking down the Sacramento Kings, 111-106. LeBron James led the charge with his 81st career triple-double, tallying 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 11 assists. Kyle Kuzma scored another 29 points while knocking down five three-pointers. Still, the win came too late for the Lakers, who have already been eliminated from postseason contention. LA is 3-12 since All-Star Weekend and has fallen to 11th in the Western Conference. Offense has been a primary issue for the Lakers, as the team ranks just 25th league-wide in offensive rating (107.6).

Washington (30-44), meanwhile, has hardly fared better. The Wizards have lost four straight and currently sit at 11th in the Eastern Conference. The team has struggled to piece it together defensively, allowing the second-most points per game of any team in the league (116.9). Washington's four straight losses have all come at home, where they are 22-16 on the season. The Wizards will get a change of scenery on Tuesday, as their trip to LA kicks off a three-game West Coast road trip. Playing away from Capital One Arena has been tough for Washington this season, though, as the Wizards are just 8-28 on the road thus far.

The Lakers will be dealing with a slough of injuries on Tuesday. Brandon Ingram (shoulder) and Lonzo Ball (ankle) remain out for the season, while Josh Hart (knee) is anticipated to miss Tuesday's contest. LeBron James (knee), Reggie Bullock (foot), and Mike Muscala (ankle) are all game time decisions. The Wizards, meanwhile, will be missing Dwight Howard (back), while Trevor Ariza (groin) is a game-time decision.
Posted on: 3/25/2019 8:39 PM