LeBron James led the Los Angeles Lakers to a hard-fought 116-114 win over the Phoenix Suns, making the difference when it mattered most. James finished with 26 points, but it was his steady hand at the free-throw line that ultimately made the difference.

Phoenix Suns on the road after an NBA Cup elimination. Despite injuries, the Suns, led by Dillon Brooks and coaching, have been competitive. The Lakers, coming off a defensive lapse, will rely on Luka Doncic and LeBron James against a tenacious Phoenix squad.

When the final buzzer sounded on Sunday night, the game between the Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers didn’t just come to a close; it shifted into scrutiny.

Los Angeles Lakers head coach JJ Redick said he was happy for Jarred Vanderbilt after the win against the Phoenix Suns.

The Los Angeles Lakers (17-7) visit the Phoenix Suns (14-11) Sunday. Tip-off from Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, Arizona, is at 8 p.m. ET. Let's analyze BetMGM Sportsbook's NBA odds around the Lakers vs. Suns odds and make our expert NBA picks and predictions for the best bets.

The Phoenix Suns are nearing the end of a gruesome portion of their schedule, but not before a pair of meetings with the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State