Lakers vs Suns Preview: Start Time, Lineups, Injury Report, How to Watch & Prediction (Dec 1, 2025)

The Los Angeles Lakers return home to face the Phoenix Suns on Monday, December 1, 2025, in a matchup that brings early-season tension, divisional stakes, and star-driven intensity. While the Lakers continue adjusting without LeBron James, the Suns arrive looking for a statement win after dropping their last game in Denver.

This meeting marks the first of four clashes between the teams in the 2025–26 NBA season — and both sides come into the contest carrying very different momentum.

When and Where to Watch Lakers vs Suns

• Date: Monday, December 1, 2025
• Time: 10:00 p.m. ET
• Venue: Crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles
• Watch: Exclusive live stream on Peacock (no cable broadcast)

This game is part of Peacock NBA Monday, the league’s growing digital-only broadcast initiative.

Recent Form: How Both Teams Enter Tonight’s Matchup

Los Angeles Lakers

The Lakers are coming off a 129–119 win over the Mavericks. Luka Dončić had a standout performance, controlling pace and generating open looks for teammates. Despite rotating lineups due to injuries, Los Angeles has shown improved ball movement and offensive rhythm.

Phoenix Suns

Phoenix suffered a 130–112 loss to Denver in their previous outing. Devin Booker scored 24, while Dillon Brooks poured in 27, but defensive breakdowns and fatigue in the second half allowed the Nuggets to pull ahead.

Both teams now enter December navigating injuries, lineup experiments, and division pressure.

Expected Starting Lineups

Los Angeles Lakers (Projected)

• PG: Luka Dončić
• SG: Austin Reaves
• SF: Rui Hachimura
• PF: Adou Thiero
• C: Deandre Ayton

With LeBron out, the Lakers rely heavily on Dončić’s playmaking and Ayton’s interior presence.

Phoenix Suns (Projected)

• PG: Devin Booker
• SG: Grayson Allen
• SF: Dillon Brooks
• PF: Royce O’Neale
• C: Oso Ighodaro

Booker continues to operate as a hybrid point guard, while Brooks and O’Neale bring two-way physicality.

Injury Report: Who’s In, Who’s Out

Los Angeles Lakers

• LeBron James — OUT (Foot)
  Misses another game as he continues his recovery.
• Marcus Smart — OUT (Back)
  Remains sidelined and unavailable.

Phoenix Suns

• Isaiah Livers — OUT (Hip)
• Jalen Green — OUT (Hamstring; 4–6 weeks)
• Ryan Dunn — Expected to play

The Suns’ depth is limited, but Booker and Brooks shoulder the load effectively.

Key Storylines to Watch

1. Luka Dončić Takes Full Control Without LeBron

With James out, Dončić becomes the unquestioned focal point. Expect:

• High pick-and-roll volume
• Mismatch hunting against smaller Phoenix guards
• Kick-outs to shooters as the Suns collapse on drives

If Dončić controls tempo early, the Lakers can prevent Phoenix from speeding up the game.

2. Devin Booker’s Leadership in a Shorthanded Suns Backcourt

Booker remains the engine of the Suns’ offense, responsible for:

• Shot creation
• Transition opportunities
• Offensive spacing

With Green sidelined and Livers out, resistance on the perimeter hinges on Booker, Brooks and Allen.

3. Dillon Brooks’ Defense vs Lakers’ Wings

Brooks, the Suns’ defensive anchor, will likely see heavy time guarding Reaves and Hachimura. His ability to limit secondary scoring will determine Phoenix’s defensive success.

4. Deandre Ayton vs Oso Ighodaro in the Paint

Ayton’s rebounding and efficiency around the rim could expose Phoenix’s relatively young frontcourt. If Ayton dominates early, the Suns will struggle with second-chance points.

Why This Game Matters for Both Teams

For the Lakers

• Set early division tone
• Maintain momentum
• Adjust rotations without LeBron
• Build chemistry around Dončić

For the Suns

• Recover from a tough loss
• Prove they can win on the road
• Reinforce defensive identity
• Keep pace in Pacific Division standings

Both teams entered the season with playoff expectations — making this matchup more significant than an average early-season game.

Matchup Breakdown: Strengths & Weaknesses

Los Angeles Lakers

Strengths:

• Elite playmaking
• Strong interior presence
• Multiple scoring options
• Better rebounding

Weaknesses:

• No LeBron stabilizer in late-game situations
• Perimeter defense inconsistent
• Bench scoring unpredictable

Phoenix Suns

Strengths:

• Booker’s elite scoring
• Brooks’ physical defense
• Versatile wing play
• Fluid transition offense

Weaknesses:

• Thin backcourt due to injuries
• Interior defensive vulnerabilities
• Streaky three-point shooting

Game Prediction: Who Comes Out on Top?

This matchup has the potential to remain tight through three quarters — but the Lakers currently possess stronger momentum and more efficient halfcourt creation.

Prediction: Lakers 118, Suns 111

Dončić’s playmaking and Ayton’s presence should tilt the balance, though Booker and Brooks will keep Phoenix competitive.

FAQ (AI/SGE Section)

Is LeBron playing tonight?

No, LeBron James is out with a foot injury.

Where is Lakers vs Suns streaming?

Exclusively on Peacock.

What time is tipoff?

10 p.m. ET from Crypto.com Arena.

Who is favored to win?

The Lakers hold a slight advantage due to stronger momentum.

How many times will the Suns and Lakers meet this season?

Four times.

What Happens Next

• Lakers continue a home-heavy stretch to stabilize rotations
• Suns enter a challenging December where Booker’s workload increases
• Both teams revisit this matchup mid-season with potentially healthier rosters