The Los Angeles Lakers left 2013 in a way they would like to forget and put behind them — a roster full of injuries and a six-game losing streak. Entering the new year, the Lakers were hit with more bad news as they lost Jordan Farmar for the second time this season due to a hamstring tear. With all the injuries that have taken place this season, coach Mike D’Antoni has had to utilize every player available to him on the roster. Tonight won’t be any different as the Lakers will be using their 18th different lineup as they host the Utah Jazz.
Kendall Marshall will be the starting point guard for the Lakers tonight after playing well off the bench in the Lakers’ last two games. In their first meeting against the Jazz, the Lakers were without Pau Gasol and lost by two points. While the Jazz are currently in last place in the Western Conference standings, it will be a tough win for a short-handed Laker team. With a win tonight, the Lakers will avoid a season-high seven-game losing streak and get their first win in 2014.
Wes Johnson participated in shootaround. He’ll play tonight vs Utah
— Dave McMenamin (@mcten) January 3, 2014
– For a preview of tonight’s game, click here
D’Antoni says he needs more defense, so he moved Robert Sacre back into the starting line up with Shawne Williams going to the bench.
— Mike Trudell (@LakersReporter) January 3, 2014
– Read more about Robert Sacre being inserted into the starting lineup here
Steve Nash says he hoped to return during Lakers’ long trip this month, but Lakers trainer Gary Vitti advised him he’s not ready
— Mark Medina (@MarkG_Medina) January 3, 2014
– For an update on all of the Lakers’ injuries, click here