Los Angeles Lakers vs San Antonio Spurs Picks and Predictions March 17th 2025

Lakers Seeking Stability

The Los Angeles Lakers, having snapped their four-game losing streak, aim to build momentum as they host the injury-plagued San Antonio Spurs on Monday night.

Battling numerous injuries, the Lakers (41-25) secured a 107-96 home win against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday. Luka Doncic delivered a standout performance with 33 points, 11 rebounds, and eight assists, supported by Austin Reaves, who added 28 points.

Doncic, still recovering from recent injuries including a hyperextended knee and ankle troubles, expressed optimism about his improving physical condition: “I’m getting there and every day I’m feeling better.”

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Injuries Mount for Los Angeles

The Lakers continue to cope with key absences. LeBron James (groin) missed his fourth consecutive game, while Rui Hachimura (knee) sat out his ninth straight contest. Both players remain day-to-day.

Jaxson Hayes returned after missing four games with a knee contusion, contributing significantly with 19 points and six rebounds. His presence provided critical support, as teammate Reaves highlighted postgame: “Just his energy, his effort, his presence in the pocket—a lob threat, gives Luka space. It was good to see him back.”

Currently fifth in the Western Conference standings, Los Angeles aims to solidify playoff positioning during their ongoing five-game homestand, with only 2.5 games separating them from the play-in tournament line.

Spurs Adjusting to Losses

San Antonio (28-38) faces significant challenges after losing star center Victor Wembanyama (blood clot) and recent addition De’Aaron Fox (finger surgery) for the season. Veteran head coach Gregg Popovich has also been largely absent due to health issues following a stroke.

Following a tough loss against the Charlotte Hornets, San Antonio bounced back with a 119-115 victory against the New Orleans Pelicans. Devin Vassell led the Spurs with 22 points, complemented by Keldon Johnson’s 19 points off the bench.

Despite a challenging shooting night, Vassell impacted the game through defense and rebounding. “It’s not a great night shooting the basketball, but just being able to affect the game in other ways is important,” Vassell explained.

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Spurs’ Bench Steps Up

Highlighting the Spurs’ depth amid adversity, four of their seven double-digit scorers against the Pelicans were bench players. Rookie guard Stephon Castle, who has stepped into a starting role in Fox’s absence, recorded 17 points and seven assists despite struggling from long range.

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Rescheduled Matchup

Monday’s matchup was initially scheduled for January 11 but was postponed due to deadly wildfires in the Los Angeles area. The Lakers currently lead the season series 2-1 against San Antonio, adding intrigue to their upcoming clash.