The Los Angeles Lakers are preparing for a much-needed first road win of the season as they face the Miami Heat in South Beach tonight. The Lakers are currently having a 3-3 record after a disappointing 120-101 loss against the Orlando Magic last Friday, whereas the Heat have a surprising 2-4 record.
The Lakers are going into the game with injuries to several important players. Gabe Vincent, Jarred Vanderbilt, Rui Hachimura, and Jalen Hood-Schifino are sidelined for the matchup. There is some positive news as Taurean Prince might make his return, and the situation with Jaxson Hayes remains uncertain but hopeful.
Looks like Taurean Prince is off the injury report for the Lakers so he should be a go against Miami but Jaxson Hayes pops up with an ankle sprain and is questionable. Rui, Vincent, Vanderbilt, and JHS are out still pic.twitter.com/5nMmr1a7b3
— Trevor Lane (@Trevor_Lane) November 5, 2023
The Heat’s injury problem also continues with Caleb Martin out for his sixth straight game due to a knee issue that has limited him to just the season opener against the Detroit Pistons. The Lakers will look to capitalize on this situation and add another win to balance their season record.
Jimmy Butler is listed as probable for the Heat vs Lakers Game Tonight
Heat star forward Jimmy Butler is listed as probable for tonight’s game against the Lakers. Dealing with knee tendinitis, Butler has been day-to-day on the injury report but he managed to play in their last game against the Washington Wizards, contributing a significant 20 points in 31 minutes of play.
Caleb Martin still out for Heat-Lakers tomorrw, RJ Hampton is questionable, Jimmy Butler is probable, everyone else currently available.
— Tim Reynolds (@ByTimReynolds) November 5, 2023
Butler’s potential presence on the court can not be underestimated as he holds outstanding averages against the Lakers over his career averaging 21.7 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.5 assists across 25 games. His performance alongside the depth of the team could prove pivotal if the Heat are to secure a win and improve their record.
Miami Heat injury report
- Duncan Robinson (probable – wrist)
- Caleb Martin (out – knee)
- R.J. Hampton (questionable – illness)
- Jimmy Butler (probable – knee)
Miami Heat starting lineup
- Kyle Lowry (PG)
- Tyler Herro (SG)
- Jaime Jaquez Jr. (SF)
- Haywood Highsmith (PF)
- Bam Adebayo (C)
Los Angeles Lakers injury report
- Rui Hachimura (inactive – concussion)
- Jaxon Hayes (questionable – ankle)
- Jalen Hood Schifino (out- knee)
- Gabe Vincent (out – knee)
- Jarred Vanderbilt (out – heel)
Los Angeles Lakers starting lineup
- D’Angelo Russell (PG)
- Austin Reaves (SG)
- LeBron James (SF)
- Taurean Prince (PF)
- Anthony Davis (C)
The Heat are favored over the Lakers tonight
Even after the difficult start to their season, the Miami Heat are slightly favored in the upcoming game against the Lakers. With only a 1.5-point advantage, the Heat are expected to win, making this match to be a tight one.
Miami Heat vs. Los Angeles Lakers odds, tips and betting trends | November 6 https://t.co/Ntsi2PFbs4
— Andy Nelson (@USAsportsbookli) November 6, 2023
The Lakers can also overcome the odds as they aim to add a ninth loss to Butler. Tip-off is set for 4:30 pm PT at the Kaseya Center, located in Downtown Miami, on Biscayne Bay.