Blazers vs. Lakers: TV Schedule, Live Stream, Spread Info and More
The Los Angeles Lakers are hosting the Portland Trail Blazers tonight in what should be an awesome game between two playoff-bound Western Conference squads.
Both teams have had some recent struggles, which means a win tonight is hugely important.
Keep reading to find out everything you need to know about this game, including where to watch it and the key matchups.
Where: STAPLES Center, Los Angeles, CA
When: Monday, February 20 at 10:30 p.m. EDT
Watch: TNT, NBA League Pass (Live Stream)
Betting Line: Lakers -4
Key Injuries: No Significant Injuries to Report
What They're Saying
Kobe Bryant is reportedly unhappy with the way the team's management is handling the Pau Gasol situation.
The Spaniard was instrumental in bringing two championships to LA and has been a key member of the franchise since being traded there in 2008.
Mike Bresnahan of the Los Angeles Times caught up with an angry Black Mamba.
""I wish management would come out and either trade him or not trade him," Bryant said crisply after the Lakers' 102-90 loss Sunday. "It's just tough for a player to give his all when you don't know if you're going to be here tomorrow. I'd rather them not trade him at all, but if they're going to do something, I wish they would just ... do it."
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Joe Freeman of The Oregonian is reporting that Nicolas Batum has become a much better closer since his game-winning layup was blocked by the Oklahoma City Thunder's point guard, Russell Westbrook.
""Sometimes, in the past, I got a flash and I was more aggressive, I dunk on people," Batum said. "But I wouldn't do it every time. Sometimes I was worried about getting a block or a charge called on me. But now, sometimes I have to tell myself, 'OK, just go. Go and see what happens.' I've got to be aggressive every game. And now I know I can do it. I feel like a different player."
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Most Important Player to Watch: Kobe Bryant
The NBA's leading scorer always has all eyes on him when he's on the court.
He's having a resurgent season and scoring 29.0 points per game. If the Lakers are going to win this, Kobe's going to be doing work.
Key Matchup: Power Forward
Lakers PF Pau Gasol is understandably upset because the team is trying to shop him. On the other hand, the Blazers 4, LaMarcus Aldridge, is having an incredible season and made his first All-Star team.
Now that Aldridge's ankle is healed, it's going to be a battle in the low post. Whoever dominates the matchup will most likely be on the victorious team.
Prediction
Lakers 95 - Trail Blazers 90
