Blazers Face Lakers in Portland on November 3

PORTLAND, Oregon — The Portland Trail Blazers (4-2) host the Los Angeles Lakers (5-2) Monday night as they look to extend their three-game winning streak. The Western Conference matchup is set to tip off at 7 p.m.

The Blazers secured their most recent victory against the Denver Nuggets, edging them 109-107 at the Moda Center on Friday. Their previous win was over these same Lakers last week in Los Angeles, where they triumphed 122-108. Deni Avdija led the way for Portland in that game, scoring 25 points, while Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant contributed 24 and 22 points, respectively.

The Lakers, however, enter this game after a 130-120 win against the Miami Heat on Sunday. Luka Dončić had a standout performance, recording a triple-double with 29 points, 11 rebounds, and 10 assists. Austin Reaves also impressed with 26 points and 11 assists in the contest.

On the sidelines for the Blazers are Damian Lillard (Achilles), Scoot Henderson (hamstring), Matisse Thybulle (thumb surgery), and Blake Wesley (foot). Shaedon Sharpe, dealing with calf soreness, is probable for tonight’s game. The Lakers are missing key players LeBron James (sciatica), Gabe Vincent (ankle), and Maxi Kleber (abdominal strain).

Portland’s fast pace has them ranked third in the NBA, producing 105.5 possessions per game. They’ve also made a mark defensively, leading in steals and ranking fifth in defensive efficiency. The Blazers’ bench scoring is impressive as well, with Grant leading the league in that category.

This matchup is crucial for both teams, as they aim to keep their winning momentum. Following this game, the Blazers will host the Oklahoma City Thunder on Wednesday.