After splitting two games this season, the Warriors and Lakers meet for the second time in three days and the third time in three weeks, when they convene Friday night at Staples Center in downtown Los Angeles.
The Warriors (13-2) are seeking their 10th consecutive victory.
While the Warriors are healthy and coming off a dominating performance, posting a 149-106 rout of LA on Wednesday at Oracle Arena, the Lakers continue to be diminished by injuries.
The Lakers (8-8) could be missing three starters. While neither guard D’Angelo Russell nor forward Julius Randle played on Wednesday, Lakers coach Luke Walton said Friday morning that guard Nick Young is “doubtful.”
BETTING LINE
Warriors by 14.5
Sports
MATCHUP TO WATCH
Kevin Durant vs. Brandon Ingram. Because of his overall talent, slender physique and shooting skill, the rookie Ingram has drawn comparisons to veteran Durant. Durant concedes to seeing something of his younger self in Ingram. With Durant turning 28 in September a few weeks after Ingram turned 19, these two could have a teacher-vs.-pupil rivalry for years to come.
INJURY REPORT
Warriors: C Damian Jones is on assignment with the D-League Santa Cruz Warriors and is expected to his make his debut Friday night.
Lakers: F Julius Randle (hip pointer) and G Nick Young (L toe sprain) are listed as questionable. G D’Angelo Russell (L knee soreness) and C Ivica Zubac (R ankle sprain) are listed as out.
SERIES HISTORY
Though the Lakers have won two of the last three meetings, the Warriors have won 10 of the last 14 overall.
THREE THINGS TO WATCH
The 30 Club: The Warriors lead the league in assists, averaging 31.9 per game, more than seven ahead of the second-place Hornets. The Warriors have recorded at least 30 in nine consecutive games – including a franchise-record 47 on Wednesday – which also is a franchise record.
Can’t get complacent: When the undermanned Lakers came into Oracle earlier this week, the Warriors showed no sympathy. They stayed on task and ran a clinic. Though it may not be easy, they’ll have to summon the same focus to assure victory.
The Bench Brigade: Even with Ian Clark scoring 21 points on Wednesday, Warriors reserves were outscored, 55-53, by Lakers reserves. LA will need explosive games from the likes of Lou Williams and Jordan Clarkson to keep it close.
