With 30 games of the 2024-25 season in the books, the Los Angeles Lakers are in a good position as they currently sit in sixth place in the Western Conference standings.

The Lakers pulled off an impressive win against the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day, where they held their own in the final minutes. Los Angeles was shorthanded as Anthony Davis was forced out of the game early with a sprained ankle, but the rest of the team was able to step up in his absence.

Rui Hachimura noted he was grateful to play on Christmas and win the game, but now the Lakers must turn their attention to another matchup with the Sacramento Kings on Saturday night. So far, Los Angeles has won the first three games against Sacramento, but they could find themselves shorthanded again as LeBron James, Davis and Hachimura are all listed as questionable, while D’Angelo Russell is likely according to head coach JJ Redick.

“LeBron and Rui, excused absences, were homesick today. The doctors have examined them, I would say they are questionable for tomorrow. But they are homesick. AD was in the building, was treated, he is also questionable for tomorrow. DLo participated in the training except for the contact portion. He’s probably leaning towards probable,” Redick said after Friday’s practice.

Given the time of year, it’s not surprising to hear that James and Hachimura are struggling with illness, while Davis was expected to be questionable for the contest. However, the encouraging news is that Russell is expected to be happy to return after missing the Warriors game.

Los Angeles already has limited frontcourt strength. So if any of James, Hachimura and Davis are out, it would put a serious strain on the lineup. Head coach JJ Redick is already doing his best with the players he has available, so hopefully none of them will have to miss the game against Sacramento.

The Kings have been largely underwhelming in the regular season, but have faced close calls against the Lakers in their previous meetings as their star duo of De’Aaron Fox and Domantis Sabonis can cause problems. Their chemistry and the pace at which they play can make things difficult for Los Angeles, so it will be interesting to see how they respond, especially if they end up missing players.

Lakers are among the teams linked to De’Aaron Fox of the Kings

Sacramento currently has a 13-18 record, leading some to believe Fox could be the next disgruntled star to request a trade. Should Fox actually inquire, the Lakers will be considered as a potential landing spot, although the Kings would likely be hesitant to trade him to a division rival.

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