PREVIEW: The Los Angeles Lakers (2-1) face the Portland Trail Blazers (1-2) at Crypto.com Arena on Monday, October 27, 2025 , with the Lakers sitting as 2.5-point underdogs. The Lakers are aiming for a third straight victory after beating the Kings 127-120, powered by Austin Reaves' career-high 51 points , though they managed this without LeBron James and Luka Doncic, both sidelined by injury. Portland enters riding frustration after dropping to 1-2 following a 114-107 loss to the Clippers . What makes this matchup compelling is how each team's strengths align with their weaknesses: the Trail Blazers rank first in forcing turnovers defensively while ranking 25th in three-point shooting efficiency , creating a contrasting profile on both ends. The Lakers' offensive prowess could prove decisive in this contest. Los Angeles ranks first in free-throw rate and third in attacking the rim efficiently, yet allows plenty of perimeter attempts defensively (ranked 24th) , setting up a potential back-and-forth affair. Portland's defensive identity emphasizes generating turnovers and defensive rebounding excellence (ranked first and sixth respectively) , though they struggle significantly against quality three-point shooting, ranked 25th. Both teams will be playing on the second night of a back-to-back , adding another layer of fatigue and unpredictability to an already intriguing Western Conference matchup.