The Los Angeles Lakers are set to face the New York Knicks tonight, aiming for their eighth consecutive victory. The team has been in impressive form, winning eight of their last 10 games. Despite trading away star forward Anthony Davis, the Lakers have relied on their strong defense to propel them forward. The arrival of star point guard Luka Doncic has also elevated their offensive game. Ahead of the Knicks matchup, the Lakers listed multiple players on the injury report, including LeBron James and Doncic. However, both stars were marked as probable and are expected to play.

This highly anticipated game could serve as a preview of the NBA Finals, with both teams ranking among the top three in their respective conferences. The Lakers currently hold the No. 2 seed in the Western Conference with a 39-21 record. Meanwhile, the Knicks sit at No. 3 in the Eastern Conference with a 40-21 record. The Lakers claimed the first meeting between the teams this season, winning 128-112. That victory came before the Lakers acquired Doncic, which sent shockwaves throughout the NBA.

While Los Angeles has excelled, their biggest challenge remains the frontcourt after trading Davis. The team has adapted by using Doncic’s playmaking ability to improve players like Jaxson Hayes. If the Lakers can maintain their form heading into the playoffs, they believe they have a strong chance to compete in the highly competitive Western Conference.

Tonight’s matchup against the Knicks will serve as a measuring stick for the Lakers as they face one of the top teams in the East with Doncic in the lineup. The clash between the two largest markets in the U.S. promises to be an exciting contest.