Event Preview
Overview
The Phoenix Suns are set to host the Los Angeles Lakers at the Footprint Center in Phoenix, Arizona, on Thursday, February 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM PST. This Western Conference showdown is pivotal for both teams as they vie for playoff positioning. The Suns currently hold a 33-26 record, placing them seventh in the Western Conference, while the Lakers are slightly ahead at 34-23, occupying the sixth spot. A win for either team could significantly impact their standings as the regular season progresses.
Season Snapshot
Phoenix Suns
The Suns have demonstrated resilience throughout the season, maintaining a competitive edge in the Western Conference. Their 33-26 record reflects a team capable of both offensive and defensive prowess. Key contributors include Collin Gillespie, who averages 13.4 points per game, and Royce O'Neale, who has been instrumental in perimeter shooting, averaging 2.6 made three-pointers over the last ten games. (espn.in)
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers, with a 34-23 record, have faced challenges but remain a formidable force in the Western Conference. Luka Doncic has been a standout, averaging 32.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game. LeBron James continues to be a key player, contributing 18.8 points and 7.5 assists over the past ten games. (espn.in)
Recent Form
Phoenix Suns
The Suns have struggled recently, posting a 3-7 record in their last ten games. During this stretch, they've averaged 101.7 points per game while allowing 111.9 points to opponents. Injuries have impacted their lineup, with Devin Booker (hip), Dillon Brooks (hand), and Haywood Highsmith (knee) all sidelined. (espn.in)
Los Angeles Lakers
The Lakers have also faced challenges, with a 5-5 record in their last ten games. They've averaged 111.4 points per game, conceding 113.7 points to opponents. In their most recent game, they suffered a narrow 110-109 loss to the Orlando Magic, marking their second consecutive home defeat. Luka Doncic recorded 22 points and 15 assists in that game. (as.com)
Talking Points
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Injury Impact: How will the Suns' injuries, particularly the absence of Devin Booker, affect their offensive strategy?
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Lakers' Road Performance: Can the Lakers overcome their recent home losses and secure a crucial road victory?
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Doncic's Leadership: Will Luka Doncic continue to carry the Lakers' offense effectively?
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Playoff Implications: How significant is this game for both teams' playoff aspirations?
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Defensive Adjustments: Which team will make the necessary defensive adjustments to gain an edge?
Players to Watch
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Collin Gillespie (Suns): Averaging 13.4 points per game, Gillespie's scoring ability is crucial for the Suns' offense. (espn.in)
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Luka Doncic (Lakers): With averages of 32.5 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 8.6 assists per game, Doncic is the focal point of the Lakers' offense. (espn.in)
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LeBron James (Lakers): Contributing 18.8 points and 7.5 assists over the past ten games, James continues to be a key playmaker. (espn.in)
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Deandre Ayton (Lakers): Recently acquired from the Portland Trail Blazers, Ayton's presence in the paint adds depth to the Lakers' frontcourt. (as.com)
Key Matchups & Storylines
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Doncic vs. Suns' Defense: How will the Suns' defense, especially without Booker, contain Doncic's playmaking and scoring?
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Suns' Perimeter Shooting vs. Lakers' Defense: With O'Neale's three-point shooting, can the Suns exploit the Lakers' perimeter defense?
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Ayton's Impact: Will Ayton's addition to the Lakers provide the necessary boost in the paint against the Suns?
Fun Facts
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Rivalry History: The Lakers lead the all-time series against the Suns 194-149, including a 154-121 record in regular-season games. (en.wikipedia.org)
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Recent Meeting: In their last encounter on December 24, 2025, the Suns defeated the Lakers 132-108, with Dillon Brooks scoring 25 points. (washingtonpost.com)
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Lakers' Acquisition: Deandre Ayton joined the Lakers from the Portland Trail Blazers, aiming to strengthen their frontcourt. (as.com)
Things to Chirp About
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"Can the Suns' defense step up without Booker?"
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"Is Doncic enough to carry the Lakers on the road?"
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"Will Ayton make an immediate impact for the Lakers?"
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"How crucial is this game for playoff positioning?"
Prediction
This matchup is poised to be a closely contested game. While the Lakers have the advantage with Doncic's leadership and Ayton's recent addition, the Suns' home-court advantage and the potential for their defense to adapt without Booker could make this a tight contest. The outcome may hinge on which team can execute their game plan more effectively under pressure.