Smart Eyes Lakers’ Cup Game Return

Bassyonni

ago 1 hour

Los Angeles Lakers guard Marcus Smart has been authorized to resume practice after a two-week absence due to a back injury, which is a promising sign for the team as they head into the NBA Cup quarterfinals. The matchup on Wednesday will see the Lakers face the San Antonio Spurs.

Marcus Smart’s Return

Smart, who is 31 years old, missed six games due to a left lumbar muscle strain. After participating in practice, he expressed optimism about his condition, stating, “Back’s feeling good. We did some tests, passed the tests. We’re going to give it a shot tomorrow.”

Smart’s Season Stats

Points per game: 9.3
Assists per game: 2.9
Rebounds per game: 2.3
Steals per game: 1.8

Preparing for the Spurs

As the Lakers prepare, they are also strategizing for the potential return of 7-foot-5 center Victor Wembanyama for the Spurs. Wembanyama, who has been sidelined for 11 games with a left calf strain, averages impressive stats this season:

Wembanyama’s Season Performance

Points per game: 26.2
Rebounds per game: 12.9
Blocks per game: 3.6

Lakers center Deandre Ayton emphasized the need for a collective effort to contain Wembanyama, stating, “The whole team has to guard him.” In a previous encounter on November 5, the Lakers narrowly defeated the Spurs 118-116, where Wembanyama was limited to 19 points.

Spurs’ Recent Form

The Spurs recently welcomed back former All-Star De’Aaron Fox, who has contributed significantly with an average of 24.3 points and 6.5 assists over the last 15 games. Lakers coach JJ Redick acknowledged the challenge posed by Fox and emphasized the importance of controlling drives from him and other dynamic guards.

Upcoming NBA Cup Matchup

Having achieved a perfect record of 4-0 in the group stage, the Lakers approach this crucial game with winning aspirations. The stakes are high: victorious teams will progress to the semifinals in Las Vegas, competing for a substantial cash prize of $530,000 per player in the championship.

Ayton remarked positively about the competition, likening it to March Madness, and expressed enthusiasm for the unique experience the NBA Cup presents to fans. With confidence in their potential, he stated, “Seeing where we are in the season, why not us?”