Lakers vs. Thunder preview: Game-time decision

The Los Angeles Lakers had a  huge stretch of time off to mend their wounds and get back on their feet after an embarrassing loss to the Indiana Pacers, but a game against the Oklahoma City Thunder isn't what you would call a cure-all. Russell Westbrook and Kevin Durant are busy trying to make up for the ground the Thunder lost while they were sidelined with injuries, but Durant is considered a game-time decision after tweaking his ankle during Oklahoma City's game against the Golden State Warriors Thursday.

Catching a wounded opponent on the second-half of a back-to-back is an advantage the Lakers have, but there's little reason to feel strong about this one. Westbrook on his own is going to terrorize the Lakers, Durant could still play, and as Nick Young said just a few weeks ago, there's no reason to count any chickens before they hatch when it comes to wins.

It's been an exhausting start to the season and it's only been 25 games. The league-worst defense is still league-worst, the offense is surprisingly in the middle of the pack, and tank enthusiasts are starting to feel concerned as the Eastern Conference proves it's military superiority.

On the bright side, the Lakers get to hang out in California leading up to their Christmas Day date with the Chicago Bulls. Up next is a trip up north to face the Sacramento Kings, followed by a return to L.A. to host the Warriors. Enjoy the game, it's been way too long since the Lakers were playing.

Time: 7:30 p.m. PT

Station: ESPN, TWSN