Los Angeles Lakers vs Phoenix Suns Preview – November 26

The Los Angeles Lakers travel to Phoenix to face the Suns at the Footprint Center in a high-stakes NBA Cup matchup on November 26. Both teams are looking to rebound from recent struggles, with Phoenix eagerly anticipating the return of superstars Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal, while Los Angeles hopes to rediscover its form after consecutive losses.
With both teams hovering in playoff contention in the Western Conference, this game carries added significance. Phoenix aims to halt a five-game losing streak, while the Lakers will look to maintain their position atop NBA Cup West Group B standings.
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers come into this game with a 10-6 record but are reeling after a 127-102 blowout loss to the Denver Nuggets. Despite LeBron James’ 18-point effort, turnovers have been an issue for the Lakers, with James committing six against Denver, bringing his total to 33 over the past six games. James’ ability to clean up his play will be critical for the Lakers to succeed. LeBron James continues to lead the team, averaging 25.2 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game.
Anthony Davis struggled mightily in the loss to Denver, scoring a season-low 14 points on 6-of-19 shooting. Davis, averaging 27.3 points and 12.1 rebounds per game, will need to bounce back against a Phoenix team getting its stars back. His battle in the paint against Jusuf Nurkic and potentially Durant could be a key matchup in this contest.
Meanwhile, Austin Reaves has been a bright spot for the Lakers, particularly against Phoenix. Reaves has scored 20 or more points in five games this season, including two stellar performances against the Suns earlier in the year. He scored 26 in a win and 23 in a loss against Phoenix, showing his ability to perform in this matchup.
Head coach JJ Redick has emphasized the need for a stronger defensive effort after the Lakers allowed 70 points in the second half against Denver. The Lakers rank 20th in points allowed per game, and they’ll need to tighten up defensively to keep pace with a rejuvenated Suns offense.
Phoenix Suns
The Suns are thrilled to welcome back Kevin Durant and Bradley Beal after both missed significant time with calf injuries. Durant, averaging 27.6 points and 6.6 rebounds per game, has been a key factor for the Suns when healthy. Beal, who averages 17.8 points, brings additional scoring depth and playmaking ability to the lineup. Their return comes at a crucial time as Phoenix looks to snap a five-game losing streak. Kevin Durant will be pivotal in his matchup against LeBron James and the Lakers.
In their absence, Devin Booker has shouldered the load for the Suns, averaging 33.2 points during their recent skid. Booker has proven to be one of the league’s most consistent scorers, and his ability to create shots for himself and others will be critical with Durant and Beal integrating back into the lineup.
The Suns’ defense has been porous, giving up 138 points in their last outing against the New York Knicks. Phoenix’s struggles have been most apparent on the perimeter, where they rank 28th in opponent three-point percentage. This weakness could be exploited by Lakers shooters like Reaves and Rui Hachimura.
Rookie Ryan Dunn has been a surprise contributor, bringing energy and defensive intensity. However, the Suns will rely heavily on their stars to steady the ship and secure a much-needed win in the NBA Cup group stage.
Pick and Prediction
With Durant and Beal back in the lineup, the Suns should have the firepower to match the Lakers’ offensive output. However, integrating two key players after a lengthy absence could disrupt their rhythm. Meanwhile, the Lakers have been inconsistent on defense, which Phoenix’s stars can exploit if they’re firing on all cylinders.
This game is likely to be closely contested, but the Suns’ home-court advantage and the return of Durant and Beal should give them the edge in the fourth quarter. Look for Devin Booker to lead the way in a narrow victory for Phoenix.
- Prediction: Phoenix Suns 115, Los Angeles Lakers 111