Lakers to Host Hawks in NBA Showdown
Los Angeles, 14 January 2026 – The Los Angeles Lakers prepare to welcome the Atlanta Hawks to Crypto.com Arena for an NBA contest, as both teams look to build momentum in the competitive Western and Eastern Conferences respectively.
Match Preview
The Lakers, sitting at 23-14 and fifth in the Pacific Division, come off a 124-112 loss to the Sacramento Kings on 12 January 2026. Luka Doncic led with 42 points, while LeBron James added 22, but poor shooting from beyond the arc plagued the team. Coach JJ Redick noted defensive concerns, stating the Lakers were 28th in opponent three-point percentage before the game. Rui Hachimura is expected to return with limited minutes after missing seven consecutive games due to a calf injury, though Austin Reaves remains out with a grade 2 calf strain.
The Hawks, at 20-21 and ninth in the Southeast Division, have won three straight games, including a 124-111 victory over the Golden State Warriors on 11 January 2026. New acquisitions CJ McCollum and Corey Kispert combined for 14 points and seven assists in their debut. Nickeil Alexander-Walker scored 24 points, and Jalen Johnson contributed 23 points and 11 rebounds. However, key injuries persist: Kristaps Porzingis (Achilles) and Zaccharie Risacher (knee) are out, with Luke Kennard (neck) also sidelined. Onyeka Okongwu, a Los Angeles native, is poised for a strong performance.
Key Facts and Stats
| Team | Record | Points Per Game | Rebounds Per Game | Assists Per Game |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles Lakers | 23-14 | 115.8 | 41.3 | 24.8 |
| Atlanta Hawks | 20-21 | 118.4 | 37.4 | 33.8 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the game being played?
The match takes place at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California.
What time does the game start?
Tip-off is at 10:30 pm local time (7:30 pm EST), or 3:30 am UTC on 14 January 2026.
Are there any notable injuries?
For the Lakers, Austin Reaves is out with a calf injury, and Jaxson Hayes is doubtful. For the Hawks, Kristaps Porzingis, Zaccharie Risacher, and Luke Kennard are out, with N’Faly Dante out for the season.