The Los Angeles Lakers had their first weekend without a game this season, but return to the court tonight to face John Wall and the Washington Wizards. The Lakers had played the first five Sundays of the season at home, but were off this Sunday, and have not played since demolishing the Kings on Friday night. Washington is playing its second game in as many nights, having lost Monday night, 125-108 in Phoenix.
Pau Gasol and the Lakers gladly took their three days without a game to try to get back on track after losing four straight before Friday's win over the Kings. Gasol is still battling a strained left hamstring, and luckily didn't have to play more than 27 minutes against Sacramento. Gasol, who is averaging 38.7 minutes per game this season, was able to sit during the fourth quarter of the Lakers' 113-80 win against the Kings.
Andre Miller or Portland was suspended for a game, which will end his consecutive games played streak at 632. What that means is that Derek Fisher now has the longest active streak in the NBA. Fisher has played 433 straight games, dating back to April 15, 2005, when he played for Golden State. Fisher has also started 311 consecutive contests, which is also tops among active NBA players.
The Wizards are 6-13 on the season, including 0-10 on the road, so the Lakers should have their way with Washington tonight. Then again, the Wizards do have Wall, who is averaging 17.0 points and 8.7 assists per game in his rookie season. Tonight's 7:30 p.m. PST game will be televised by Fox Sports West.
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