Here is what you need to know before the Lakers begin their post-All-Star slate against the Houston Rockets.
1) It’s time for the final push
The Lakers know the stakes: 25 games left to make up a three-game deficit in the standings in order to reach the postseason.
LeBron James, in particular, declared his preparedness for the moment, saying on Wednesday that his playoff-level intensity is “activated.”
“I enjoy the challenge of anything,” James said. “I enjoy being uncomfortable. I enjoy being counted out.
“I’m an African-American kid from Akron, Ohio, [and] a single-parent household. Basketball is nothing compared to how I made it out. This is just basketball, and I know I’m ready for the challenge.”
James has also historically backed up his words with actions. Last year, he averaged 26.5 points, 8.9 assists and 8.1 rebounds before the All-Star Break, and then amped up to 29.4 points, 9.5 assists and 9.8 rebounds after it.
2) Kuz back from his big weekend
Kyle Kuzma put on a show at All-Star Weekend in Charlotte, dropping 35 points en route to MVP honors at the Rising Stars game.
Now Kuzma will look to carry that momentum in these final games that count toward the Lakers’ playoff race.
The sophomore had one of his best games yet in the Lakers’ previous meeting with Houston, racking up 20 points in a red-hot first quarter as part of a 32-point night.
Kuzma also entered the break on a hot streak, averaging 27.7 points in his last three games, while hitting 4.3 3-pointers on a 52.0 percent clip.
3) Harden has hit another level
The reigning MVP is making a push for another trophy. James Harden has erupted for 31 consecutive 30-point games, tying Wilt Chamberlain (1962) for the second-most in NBA history, next to a 65-game streak by Chamberlain in 1961-62.
Harden is currently running away with the scoring title, averaging 36.6 points per game this season. It would be the eighth-highest scoring average ever, and best since Michael Jordan averaged 37.1 points 32 years ago.
And Harden’s supporting cast has strengthened since last facing the Lakers a month ago.
Chris Paul (15.6 points, 8.0 assists) and Clint Capela (17.6 points, 12.6 rebounds) have returned from injuries, while Houston added Kenneth Faried (15.9 points, 10.3 rebounds), who has thrived in pick-and-roll partnerships with Harden and Paul.
Injury Report
Lakers: Josh Hart (left knee patellar tendinitis) is probable. Tyson Chandler (stiff neck) and Mike Muscala (right ankle sprain) are questionable. Lonzo Ball (left ankle sprain) is out. Isaac Bonga is on G League assignment.
Rockets: Clint Capela (right thumb injury) and Austin Rivers (sore right elbow) are probable. Iman Shumpert (sore right knee) is out. Isaiah Hartenstein and Danuel House Jr. are on G League assignment.
Tip-Off: 7:30 p.m. PT
TV: TNT
Radio: 710 ESPN and 1330 KWKW
Unis: Gold Icon
Location: STAPLES Center — Los Angeles, California