The Los Angeles Lakers (23-21 SU, 18-25-1 ATS) are finding out the hard way just how badly they need LeBron James. The Lakers are 3-7 SU and 4-6 ATS since James left the lineup with a strained groin, putting them behind the 8-ball for Thursday’s road game against the Oklahoma City Thunder (26-16 SU, 23-19 ATS). TNT has the coverage at 9:30 PM ET.
One of those James-less games was against the Thunder on January 2, and things didn’t turn out too well for the Lakers. They carried the lead into the fourth quarter, but fell apart and lost 107-100 as 6-point home dogs. This was despite Russell Westbrook shooting just 3-for-20 in one of his patented low-efficiency triple-doubles (14 points, 16 rebounds, 10 assists).
There’s a chance James could suit up on Thursday. He’s officially listed as day-to-day, and his status is due for an update on Wednesday. Rajon Rondo is still a few weeks away after undergoing surgery on his right hand. Meanwhile, back-up C/PF Nerlens Noel is day-to-day for the Thunder with a concussion, leaving a void in the Oklahoma City frontcourt. Patrick Patterson is their only remaining big behind starting center Steven Adams.
