Sun Jan 18 02:10:00 UTC 2026: # Lakers Face Battered Blazers Amidst Internal Strife and Injury Woes

The Story:
The Los Angeles Lakers, struggling with injuries, inconsistent play, and internal drama, are set to face the Portland Trail Blazers, who are also dealing with significant injuries, on Wednesday, January 17. Both teams will field depleted rosters. The Lakers, despite a better record (24-15) compared to the Blazers (20-22), have been plagued by defensive vulnerabilities and locker room issues, while the Blazers are looking to capitalize on the Lakers’ weaknesses with their younger players.

The game is significant for both teams as they navigate a challenging part of their schedules. For the Lakers, a loss could exacerbate existing tensions and raise further questions about the team’s direction. For the Blazers, a win against a high-profile opponent, even a weakened one, could provide a much-needed morale boost and a step towards play-in contention.

Key Points:

  • The Lakers will be without Luka Dončić, Austin Reaves, and possibly Deandre Ayton and Jaxson Hayes due to injuries.
  • The Trail Blazers’ injury list includes Scoot Henderson, Damian Lillard, Kris Murray, Matisse Thybulle, and Blake Wesley, with Deni Avdija doubtful and Jerami Grant and Jrue Holiday questionable.
  • Lakers coach, JJ Reddick, has benched Deandre Ayton during the fourth quarter in some games, due to fluctuating energy and inconsistent defensive play.
  • Marcus Smart publicly criticized the Lakers’ leading scorer, Dončić, for complaining to officials instead of focusing on defense.
  • Offensive and Defensive ratings:
    • Trail Blazers: Offensive – 113.1 (23rd place), Defensive – 115.5 (17th place)
    • Lakers: Offensive – 116.8 (8th place), Defensive – 117.6 (26th place)

Key Takeaways:

  • Both teams are significantly impacted by injuries, creating an opportunity for lesser-known players to step up.
  • The Lakers’ internal issues, including player criticism and reported tension between agents, are adding to their on-court struggles.
  • The Lakers’ porous defense is a major concern and may be a fundamental limitation of the team.
  • Deandre Ayton’s inconsistency and fluctuating energy levels are making him a liability.
  • The game presents a chance for the Blazers’ young players to exploit the Lakers’ weaknesses and potentially upset a team grappling with internal strife.

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