Sat Nov 30 03:44:58 UTC 2024: ## Lakers’ Davis and Knecht to Start Against Thunder Despite Injury Concerns

**Los Angeles, CA** – The Los Angeles Lakers will have All-NBA center Anthony Davis and rookie shooting guard Dalton Knecht in the starting lineup for Friday’s crucial Emirates NBA Cup game against the Oklahoma City Thunder. Both players were initially listed as probable due to injuries – Davis with plantar fasciitis in his left foot and Knecht with a right quad contusion – but have been upgraded to start.

However, the Lakers will be without center Jaxson Hayes, who is out with a right ankle contusion. This absence is a significant blow as Hayes is Davis’ primary backup.

The game is critical for the Lakers, who are currently tied with the Phoenix Suns and San Antonio Spurs at 2-1 in their NBA Cup group. A win against the Thunder (1-1) is essential for their playoff hopes. Their chances are boosted by the Thunder’s significant injury woes.

Oklahoma City will be missing several key players, including former Laker Alex Caruso (right hip strain), Chet Holmgren (right iliac wing hip fracture), Jaylin Williams (right hamstring strain), Ousmane Dieng (right ring finger fracture), and Nikola Topic (out for the season).

The Lakers will also be without several players, including Christian Wood, Jarred Vanderbilt (both recovering from surgery), Bronny James (left heel contusion), and Jalen Hood-Schifino (G League assignment). The availability of Davis and Knecht, however, significantly strengthens Los Angeles’ chances against a depleted Thunder team.

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