One of the exciting match-ups of the Rivals Week is all set to roll tonight. It’s the ultimate LeBron James vs Stephen Curry clash. The duo already faced each other on the Christmas Day game. Despite Steph’s heroics at the end, it was James who had the last laugh. Weeks after that game, the Bay Area superstar has an opportunity to pay back this time with renewed energy. Can the Lakers withstand the Warriors’ sudden rise?

While the superstar duo is highly competitive on the court, they have an entirely different bond now, especially after their reigns in the Paris Olympics. So, it’s an added layer of excitement to the match-up. Nevertheless, the Warriors have their playoff contention on the line and can’t afford to lose a game here on. Moreover, in the last game against the Bulls, Steph & Co. staged a blowout win with a comprehensive shooting night from the bench.

Does the Lakers have enough assets to take on the in-form Warriors? Unfortunately, the Purple & Gold is in a bit of a bittersweet situation. Let’s look at the bad news first. Earlier, the team had listed LeBron James and Anthony Davis in the Probable category, citing left foot injury management and right calf soreness, respectively. However, LeBron has now been downgraded to Questionable for tonight’s game. It’s indeed bad news if either of the veterans didn’t show up for the highlight event. On the positive side, the team has finally removed forward Jarred Vanderbilt from the injury.

The 6 ‘8 Vando has been out of action for close to a year, dealing with a foot injury. JJ Redick hinted that he would deploy the star under minutes restriction. Considering Vanderbilt’s rebounding and defense skills, it will take some pressure off Anthony Davis. Anyway, here is a list of other players injured in the Lakers roster:

• Jalen Hood-Schifino (Hamstring) – Out
• Christian Wood (Left knee surgery) – Out
• Bronny James (G-League) – Out

LeBron James & Co.: Starting Lineup and Depth Chart

Currently, the Warriors have three in-form bigs on their roster: Trayce Jackson-Davis, Kevon Looney, and Quentin Post. The 7-foot rookie had an extended stay on the floor in the last game against the Bulls. Post grabbed the opportunity with both hands and recorded his career-high 20 points, which included 5 three-pointers. A big with a long-range shooting is definitely a lethal weapon for the Dubs.

So, Quentin Post will not only increase the space on the floor but also dominate the paint in the absence of Anthony Davis and LeBron James.

On the other hand, apart from Austin Reaves, none of the Lakers’ players hasn’t been consistent offensively. In short, the Warriors have an upper heading into the game tomorrow. However, the game is unpredictable. A fiery quarter from Dalton Knecht could alter the game for the Lakers.

Who do you think will win tonight? Let us know in the comments.