Lakers vs Suns: Struggling Teams Seek Turnaround in Crucial NBA Clash
On Thursday, February 26, 2026, the Los Angeles Lakers (34–23) will travel to face the Phoenix Suns (33–26) in a high-stakes NBA matchup at PHX Arena. Both franchises enter this contest mired in disappointing recent form, desperately searching for a spark to reignite their seasons. The game is scheduled for a 9 p.m. ET tip-off, featuring Pacific Division rivals in their fourth encounter of the current campaign.
Recent Struggles Set the Stage
The Lakers arrive as 5.5-point favorites, but their performance has been far from dominant. Los Angeles has lost four of its last six games, including two consecutive defeats. Their most recent outing was a narrow 110-109 loss to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday, where they were favored by 6.5 points. Over their past five games, the Lakers hold a subpar 2-3 straight-up record.
Phoenix's situation is even more dire. The Suns have dropped six of their last eight contests, including their final two games. They suffered a heavy 97-81 defeat to the Boston Celtics on Tuesday, despite entering as 5.5-point favorites. Their recent five-game stretch shows a dismal 1-4 record, highlighting the urgency for improvement.
Broadcast and Streaming Details
Fans can catch the action live on SportsNet LA and AZFamily, with additional coverage on Suns+. For those preferring digital platforms, the game will be available for streaming via Fubo and Prime Video, ensuring comprehensive access for viewers nationwide.
Expected Starting Lineups
Los Angeles Lakers:
- PG: Luka Doncic
- SG: Austin Reaves
- SF: Marcus Smart
- PF: LeBron James
- C: Deandre Ayton
Phoenix Suns:
- PG: Collin Gillespie
- SG: Jalen Green
- SF: Grayson Allen
- PF: Royce O'Neale
- C: Mark Williams
Injury Report Impacts Both Sides
The Lakers will be without Rui Hachimura due to illness, while Jaxson Hayes is listed as day-to-day with an ankle issue. Phoenix faces a more significant injury crisis, with multiple key players ruled out. Cole Anthony is absent from the team, Jordan Goodwin is out with a calf injury, Dillon Brooks has a broken left hand, Haywood Highsmith is sidelined with a knee problem, and star guard Devin Booker is unavailable due to a right hip strain.
Game Prediction and Key Factors
Despite Austin Reaves scoring more than 19.5 points in only two of his last ten games, the offensive environment remains favorable for his production. The Lakers have averaged 119.0 points per game on the road over their last five outings, ranking ninth in the NBA for road scoring during that span.
A concerning trend for Phoenix is the ease with which opposing starting shooting guards have been drawing fouls. Over the past ten games, they have allowed an average of 3.4 free-throw attempts per game to these players, creating additional scoring opportunities for opponents. This defensive vulnerability could be exploited by the Lakers' backcourt.
With both teams eager to halt their losing skids, this matchup promises intense competition as they battle for crucial momentum in the Western Conference standings.
