2 min read • March 27, 2022
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Los Angeles Lakers - SIC Health Score 78.9
The Lakers are looking to bounce back after a loss to the 76ers as they take on the New Orleans Pelicans in what looks to be a potential play-in game preview as the Lakers and Pelicans currently sit at the 9th and 10th seed respectively.
LeBron James (FD $11,400) does head into this matchup with a questionable designation as he is dealing with the same left knee issue that held him out last game and has plagued him a majority of this season. Something to monitor, but we lean towards him being ready to go for this matchup.
Dwight Howard (FD $3,600) popped up on the injury report yesterday and is now questionable for tonight with hip soreness. If he is unable to go, look for Pelicans center Jonas Valanciunas (FD $8,500) to have a big game on the boards with Howard being the Lakers only true big-man.
Talen Horton-Tucker (FD $3,900) is probable and looks to be ready to play after missing the last two games with a right ankle sprain.
New Orleans Pelicans - SIC Health Score 74.2
The Pelicans come into this matchup sitting in the last available play-in game slot with an opportunity to jump the 9th-seed Lakers with a win tonight. This game carries significant weight and is likely why you can expect a certain Pelicans star to return to action.
Brandon Ingram (FD $9,300) has been upgraded to probable for tonight after missing the last 10 games with a hamstring injury. It appears to be good timing for his return as this is a pivotal game for both teams' playoff chances. We expect him to carry a full load of minutes and his usual high offensive production.
G C.J. McCollum (FD $7,800) and C Jonas Valanciunas (FD $8,500) are both listed as questionable due to ankle and foot issues respectively. McCollum was able to play 35 minutes last game and will likely try to play through as should Valanciunas.
Meanwhile, Head Coach Willie Green said Wednesday that Zion Williamson has been clear for 1-on-1 work. This is encouraging for the young star, however we have opined and now sources have confirmed that Zion is not expected to return from his right foot injury this season.
Potential Plays:
Lakers +3 and/or ML - The Lakers are the healthier squad and need a win desperately, expect James to play well after sitting out the Lakers last contest
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