The stage is set for a thrilling NBA showdown as the Los Angeles Lakers travel to face the Philadelphia 76ers this Sunday. This marquee matchup promises high-octane action with both teams boasting potent offensive firepower. The game is scheduled for December 7, 2025, at 7:30 p.m. ET (4:30 p.m. PT) and will be hosted at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Fans across India can catch the live stream exclusively on Fubo.
Team Statistics and Key Players
Analysing the numbers reveals a fascinating contest between two closely matched squads. The Lakers hold a slight edge in scoring, averaging 118.6 points per game compared to the 76ers' 117.3. However, Philadelphia dominates the boards with 44.5 rebounds per game against the Lakers' 40.5. Playmaking is nearly even, with the 76ers dishing out 25.7 assists per contest to the Lakers' 25.2. A significant defensive disparity exists in shot-blocking, where Philadelphia averages a formidable 6.2 blocks versus just 3.7 for Los Angeles.
Leading the charge for the 76ers is the explosive Tyrese Maxey, who is pouring in 31.6 points per game on efficient shooting splits of 46.7% from the field and an incredible 88.6% from the free-throw line. On the glass, Andre Drummond pulls down 9.2 rebounds per game (3.1 offensive, 6.1 defensive). Contributor Quentin Grimes adds 16.8 points, 4.4 assists, and 3.9 rebounds per outing.
Expected Lineups and Crucial Injury Report
The starting fives for this clash feature star power, but injury concerns loom large, especially for the home team. The Lakers are projected to start: Luka Doncic (PG), Austin Reaves (SG), Rui Hachimura (SF), Jake LaRavia (PF), and Deandre Ayton (C).
Philadelphia's expected lineup includes: Tyrese Maxey (PG), VJ Edgecombe (SG), Paul George (PF), Dominick Barlow (PF), and Joel Embiid (C).
The injury report, however, could dramatically impact these plans. For the Lakers, LeBron James is listed as Day-to-day dealing with right sciatica and left foot arthritis, while Marcus Smart is ruled Out with a left lumbar strain.
The 76ers' roster is under more severe strain. Kelly Oubre Jr. and Trendon Watford are both Out with left knee and adductor injuries, respectively. Crucially, the status of their two biggest stars is in doubt: both Joel Embiid and Paul George are marked as Questionable due to left knee injury recoveries. Their availability will be a game-time decision.
Game Prediction and Historical Context
Recent history between these franchises suggests a fiercely competitive battle. The Lakers won back-to-back games in 2024 (116-106 and 101-94), showcasing their resilience. However, the 76ers have had the upper hand lately, winning three of the last five encounters. This includes a dominant 138-94 win in late 2023 and a 118-104 victory as recently as January 29, 2025. A nail-biting 113-112 win for Philadelphia in January 2023 also highlights how close these games can be.
Given the statistical balance and the significant injury questions surrounding Philadelphia's core, this game is poised to be a tight affair likely decided in the final minutes. Momentum swings and late-game execution will be paramount. While recent form slightly favours the 76ers, the potential absence of Embiid and George levels the playing field considerably. Expect a high-scoring, back-and-forth contest where the team that controls the tempo and manages its defensive rotations better will emerge victorious.
