Hawks Vs. Lakers Preview: Anthony Davis Returns As L.A. Looks For Revenge

Hawks Vs. Lakers Preview: Anthony Davis Returns As L.A. Looks For Revenge

Hawks Vs. Lakers Preview: Anthony Davis Returns As L.A. Looks For Revenge

Lakers Aim for Revenge Against Hawks After Strong Start to 2025

The Los Angeles Lakers started 2025 on a high note with a victory over the Portland Trail Blazers, despite being without Anthony Davis. Now, they’ll look to keep the momentum going as they host the Atlanta Hawks on Friday in the second game of a back-to-back.

This matchup offers the Lakers a chance for redemption after falling to the Hawks in Atlanta a few weeks ago in a thrilling overtime game. Trae Young’s clutch game-winning 3-pointer sealed the win for Atlanta, but this time, L.A. comes in with a revamped roster and a renewed sense of purpose.

The Lakers recently acquired Dorian Finney-Smith and Shake Milton in a trade involving D’Angelo Russell. The move has paid dividends, especially for Austin Reaves, who has flourished in his new role as the team’s primary ball-handler. Over the past four games, Reaves has been on a tear, averaging 25.5 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 11.8 assists while shooting 37% from beyond the arc. Notably, Reaves missed the first game against Atlanta, making him a key addition this time around.

The Lakers are also expected to welcome back Anthony Davis, who missed the Portland game due to an ankle sprain. Davis dominated in the previous meeting with the Hawks, putting up 38 points, 10 rebounds, and eight assists, and will aim to replicate that performance.

Another major shift for the Lakers has been the emergence of Max Christie in the starting lineup. Christie is coming off a career-high 28-point performance against Portland, and his defense will be crucial against Atlanta’s dynamic offense. Alongside Christie, Finney-Smith’s defensive prowess on the wing will also be vital in containing the Hawks' talented perimeter players.

However, the Lakers will once again be without Gabe Vincent, who is set to miss his third consecutive game due to an oblique strain.

Facing an athletic and well-rounded team like the Hawks, the Lakers will need a complete team effort to secure a win and remain undefeated in 2025. With key players stepping up and a renewed focus on both ends of the court, L.A. is determined to continue building momentum for the new year.