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USA Today via Reuters

USA Today via Reuters

The Los Angeles Lakers have had a lackluster start to the season, securing victories in only 17 out of their 34 games played so far. The Lakers’ performances have been abysmal since their In-Season tournament triumph, managing only three victories in their last 11 games. As they face the Miami Heat in their next match, LA really needs to find their form.

The game is scheduled to tip off by 10:00 PM, Eastern Time at the Crypto.com Center in Los Angeles. However, both sides face an anxious wait, as stars like Jimmy Butler, Anthony Davis, and LeBron James’ availability remains uncertain for tonight’s game.

Jimmy Butler sidelined for tonight’s game

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The game between the Lakers and the Heat promises to be a thrilling encounter. The two 2020 NBA finalists go into the game aiming to end their two-game losing streak. However, the Heat could be without the services of several key players for tonight’s game. In a devastating blow, star player Jimmy Butler remains sidelined for the game against the Lakers due to a foot injury. Apart from Jimmy, the Heat will also miss the services of Caleb Martin (ankle), Josh Richardson (back), Haywood Highsmith (concussion) and Dru Smith (knee).

USA Today via Reuters

On the other hand, the Lakers also have to deal with several injured players. Gabe Vincent (knee) and Rui Hachimura (calf) will remain sidelined for tonight’s game. The Lakers have listed LeBron and Cam Reddish as questionable for the game against the Heat. Furthermore, D’Angelo Russell’s status for tonight’s game remains uncertain after he suffered a tailbone injury against the Timberwolves. But, amidst the rising injuries within the Lakers camp, there is some positive news that has surfaced. The Lakers have listed Anthony Davis as probable for tonight’s game, dispelling earlier speculation that he might miss the matchup.

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Predicted Lineups: Lakers vs Heat

The Lakers really need a win to get their season back on track, after losing two consecutive games. They currently occupy a position that is outside the guaranteed playoff spot. This doesn’t bode well for their title aspirations. However, the Lakers have shown their title credentials, as evidenced by their NBA Cup victory. In a high-stakes game, the Lakers would field their strongest lineup. They could start the game with LeBron James, Austin Reaves, Taurean Prince, Jarred Vanderbilt, and Anthony Davis.

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This game also holds huge significance for the Miami Heat, who themselves would look to end their two-game losing streak. However, the Heat are better positioned for an assault on the NBA title. They currently occupy the 4th spot in the Eastern Conference, with 19 wins and 14 losses. They could begin the game with Kyle Lowry, Tyler Herro, Jaime Jaquez Jr., Kevin Love, and Bam Adebayo.

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