PREVIEW: The Los Angeles Lakers (15-5) will visit the Toronto Raptors (15-7) at Scotiabank Arena on Thursday night, seeking their fourth consecutive road victory. Los Angeles had its seven-game winning streak snapped by the Phoenix Suns in their last game, marking their third contest in four days. The Lakers will be without Luka Doncic due to personal reasons, forcing Austin Reaves and LeBron James to shoulder increased offensive responsibilities. With Doncic sidelined, Reaves has stepped up his game and is scoring 28.1 points per game this season alongside contributions from Rui Hachimura and other supporting players. The Raptors are riding momentum as they occupy the second spot in the Eastern Conference standings and show no fear against any opponent. Toronto bounced back from consecutive road losses by defeating the Portland Trail Blazers 121-118 at home, setting up this marquee matchup against the visiting Lakers. The trio of Brandon Ingram, Scottie Barnes, and Immanuel Quickley presents a tough challenge for Los Angeles, complemented by Toronto's stout defense that allows just 113.1 points per game. The Raptors have won each of their last eight home games and sit at 8-2 at Scotiabank Arena, making them formidable in their own building.