The NBA Playoffs are nearly here. There are just a week's worth of regular-season games left to be played, which means playoff scenarios are being played out. One team looking to make it back into the playoffs for a third straight season is the Los Angeles Lakers.

The Lakers Nation staff debated who they prefer the Los Angeles Lakers' first round opponent to be in the 2025 NBA Playoffs.

The league announced on Tuesday that if the Lakers win, they will clinch a playoff spot. With the Denver Nuggets and Memphis Grizzlies both reeling from having their coaches recently fired, the path for the Lakers to make the playoffs is clear.

Warriors: Jonathan Kuminga (right pelvic contusion) is questionable. Gary Payton II (left thumb ligament partial tear) is out. Lakers: LeBron James (left groin strain) is probable. Maxi Kleber (right foot surgery recovery) is out.

The LA Lakers held on for a 104-98 home victory over the Houston Rockets on Monday, gaining critical ground in the Western Conference standings.

Back-to-back wins against Memphis and Houston have aided the Lakers' push for the No. 2 seed. Another key game, against Golden State, looms.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been struggling as of late. Should fans be concerned with the playoffs approaching?

The LA Lakers completed their four-game road schedule with a crucial 134-127 Memphis Grizzlies win on Saturday.

The Los Angeles Lakers play against the Golden State Warriors in an NBA game tonight. Fans can watch this game for free online.