The Los Angeles Lakers meet the Phoenix Suns on Dec. 14 in a crucial Western Conference showdown. Both teams seek momentum, seeding stability, and meaningful statement wins. The Lakers enter confidently at home, while the Suns fight to regain rhythm after inconsistent recent performances.
Lakers’ Offensive Firepower and Defensive Questions
Luka Dončić leads the Lakers, averaging a league-high 35.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 9.0 assists per game, making him a leading MVP candidate this season. Austin Reaves has also emerged, averaging 27.8 points with 6.7 assists, providing elite secondary scoring.
THERE WILL NEVER BE A PLAYER WITH MORE AURA 🐐 pic.twitter.com/RFmJfhp2H8
— Lakers Lead (@LakersLead) December 11, 2025
Los Angeles scores about 118.3 points per game, but their defense allows 116.1, showing inconsistency. Recently the Lakers lost in the NBA Cup to the Spurs despite a 35-point outing by Dončić, highlighting defensive lapses.
Suns’ Balanced Scoring and Injury Variables
Phoenix features All-Star guard Devin Booker, averaging 25.0 points and 6.7 assists per game, though he has been day-to-day with a groin strain that forced him out of recent action. Dillon Brooks has taken on a larger role, scoring 23+ points in recent games, and Collin Gillespie adds perimeter shooting.
However, Phoenix shot poorly in a blowout loss to the Rockets without Booker, showcasing offensive vulnerability. The Suns sit in the middle of the Pacific Division and need robust two-way play to challenge a top-seed contender.
Prediction & Pick: Lakers 120, Suns 113. Los Angeles’ superior offensive balance and home-court advantage give them the edge, especially if Booker’s minutes remain limited.
