Los Angeles Lakers vs Philadelphia 76ers: Preview, predictions, injury report and TV info for tonight's crucial matchup for their playoffs aspirations

In one of the most interesting matchups scheduled for this NBA Friday, the Los Angeles Lakers, led by the King, LeBron James, will be facing the Philadelphia 76ers, guided by their own star, Tyrese Maxey. The Sixers, plagued by injuries will be visiting LA in search for a win, but for the Lakers, this duel is key for keeping their hopes to avoid the play-in tournament and go directly to the playoffs.

The Sixers will be the visitors in a very difficult matchup. However, although they are still without Joel Embiid, they have to move forward, as they are currently in 8th place in the Eastern Conference, in play-in positions, with a 38-31 record, tied with the Miami Heat (7th) and still very close to the direct playoff qualification, whose limit is set by the Indiana Pacers, 6th with 39-31.

The Lakers, meanwhile, are in 9th place in the Western Conference, ahead of the rival Golden State Warriors (10th at 36-32). The purple and gold's 37-32 record is still not enough to close in on the next rival in the standings, the Sacramento Kings, who are 8th with a 40-29 record.

The main predictions for tonight's game place the Los Angeles Lakers over the Philadelphia 76ers to win. The large number of injuries for the Sixers makes it very difficult for the team led by Nick Nurse to win at the Los Angeles Lakers' home court.

In addition, the potential starters will be:

The game will be played early tonight at 10:30 pm ET, and can be followed on the NBA's official website and app with a League Pass subscription.