Los Angeles Lakers vs Minnesota Timberwolves: Preview for Sunday's premier showdown

Los Angeles Lakers continue their path to get to the Western Conference playoffs. Today, they'll be facing a Minnesota Timberwolves team that lost Karl-Anthony Towns last week but with a phenomenal Anthony Edwards. The Lakers are no strangers to injury problems, with both of their superstars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis listed as questionable. The match will be played in LA at the Crypto.com Arena.

The last meeting between the Lakers and Timberwolves occurred in December, in a moment where the Lakers were in a 2-10 spiral. Despite a valiant effort, LA fell to the Wolves, extending their losing streak. This streak has been a constant obstacle for the Lakers, and is one of the main reasons they have been stuck in ninth place in the standings.

Since then, however, the Lakers have experienced significant improvements. They have shown more cohesive play and have found ways to overcome adversity. While they are still not out of trouble, they are in a better position than before to face the Wolves.

One potential advantage for the Lakers is the absence of Karl-Anthony Towns from the Wolves' lineup due to injury. This could weaken the Wolves' inside game, although do not underestimate a team that has proven its ability to adapt and compete without its star.

However, the Lakers are also facing injuries of their own. Both Anthony Davis and LeBron James are questionable for Sunday's game. Davis suffered a shoulder injury against the Milwaukee Bucks, while James continues to recover from an ankle injury. The participation of these two stars will be critical to the Lakers' success in this crucial matchup.

To overcome the Wolves, the Lakers will have to face a solid defense that has been a strength for Minnesota all season. In addition, they will need a solid performance from the perimeter, especially after D'Angelo Russell's shooting display in their last game.

The contribution of the secondary players will also be crucial. In the game against the Bucks, the Lakers' supporting players proved their worth by stepping up in the absence of the team's stars. If they can replicate that performance, the Lakers will have a better chance of pulling out the win.