The Lakers return home to Staples Center, at least for one last weekend. The injury bug is plaguing the Lakers more than ever now with both guards Jodie Meeks and Steve Blake expected to miss Game 3 tonight. Steve Nash who’s been dealing with a hip injury had three injections on Thursday to keep the pain stable. While he’s a game time decision, all signs are indicating Nash will start tonight. Kobe’s expected to be court-side tonight and should provide an emotional lift to the shorthanded Lakers.
During game three, Coach Mike D’Antoni still managed to not force feed the paint (being their clear advantage of the series), with Steve Blake taking more shots than Dwight Howard and Pau Gasol. Dwight and Timmy Duncan both finished with 16 points, as Howard took 2 less shots.
The Spurs are slowly bringing Manu Ginobili back in form who’s been providing a big offensive boost from the bench in limited time to get back in “game shape.” Tony Parker is nearing his MVP-level season he was having before his injury in the latter half of the season with Kawhi Leonard having superstar potential guided by Coach-Pop.
With the recent injuring of Russell Westbrook, the San Antonio Spurs should be motivated now in the a weakened Western Conference as their pieces are coming together now getting healthy at the right moment. Tip-off is at 10:30pm ET on ESPN.
*UPDATE* Spurs Win 120-89