Lakers predicted to outlast rival Clippers in NBA Cup group play

The Los Angeles Lakers begin their hopeful run at a second NBA Cup title in three seasons Friday night when they take on Ja Morant and the Memphis Grizzlies.

Los Angeles' 26-year-old generational talent Luka Dončić appears to be trending in the right direction as he recovers from a left finger strain and lower leg contusion, though he remains questionable for the contest.

Even with Dončić and their 21-time All-Star LeBron James possibly out for a solid portion of the NBA Cup schedule, one NBA writer predicts that the Lakers should come out of their tournament group unscathed and defeat their in-city rival in the process.

"So, who will win if it's Los Angeles vs. Los Angeles (Clippers)?" ClutchPoints' Brett Siegel wrote Friday morning.

"The Lakers have won six of their last eight regular-season meetings against their rivals."

"With the possibility of both James and Dončić being healthy come time for their Nov. 25 clash with the Clippers, it's hard to pick against the Lakers with their three-headed monster."

"WEST GROUP B PREDICTION: Lakers win Group B over Clippers by head-to-head tiebreaker; Clippers earn West Wildcard."

Due in large part to the recent breakout of rising star guard Austin Reaves (34.2 points, 10.0 assists in five games), the Lakers should still have a chance to come away with a West Group B victory over James Harden, Kawhi Leonard and the Los Angeles Clippers.

The Clippers have gotten off to a poor start in 2025-26, as their aging roster has posted a No. 22 ranked 112.0 offensive rating and overall -1.6 net rating through their first four contests.

If both Dončić and James can return in time to assist Reaves with staving off their veteran competition, then it may be a no-brainer to pick the Lakers as winners of their NBA Cup group.

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