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Injuries reshape Lakers–Suns matchup as Western Conference race tightens
With Luka Dončić and multiple rotation players sidelined, the Lakers–Suns game takes on a different shape, testing depth and execution as both teams chase playoff positioning.
Los Angeles arrives fourth in the West at 19-8, while Phoenix sits seventh at 15-13, making the contest meaningful for playoff positioning. The Lakers will miss Luka Dončić, sidelined with a lower leg contusion, removing their primary offensive engine. Rui Hachimura and Gabe Vincent are also unavailable, forcing rotation adjustments and placing added pressure on remaining starters to generate scoring and playmaking.