Lakers vs Suns: How to Watch Today’s NBA Game Live

Following disappointing eliminations in the NBA Cup quarterfinals, the Los Angeles Lakers head to Phoenix for a regular-season showdown against the Phoenix Suns on Sunday night.

Both teams are eager to reset and regain momentum, making this matchup more meaningful than a typical December game.

📺 Where to Watch Lakers vs Suns Live

The Lakers and Suns will meet at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix, with multiple viewing options available.

Venue: Mortgage Matchup Center (Phoenix, AZ)

Date: Sunday, December 14, 2025

Tip-off: 6:00 PM local time (Phoenix) / 8:00 PM ET

Broadcast: NBA League Pass, SportsNet LA (Lakers), AZFamily (Suns)

🔄 Both Teams Looking to Bounce Back

This game was added to the regular-season slate after both teams were eliminated early from the NBA Cup.

The Lakers were knocked out by a young San Antonio Spurs squad playing without Victor Wembanyama, while the Suns suffered a lopsided loss against the Oklahoma City Thunder, the current leaders of the Western Conference.

Despite recent setbacks, Los Angeles enters the matchup in a stronger overall position, holding more wins and fewer losses than Phoenix in the standings.

🌟 Suns Could Get a Boost at Home

Playing at home gives the Suns a potential edge — especially with Devin Booker possibly returning to the lineup.

Booker has missed time due to a groin injury but has been cleared for full practice. His availability would significantly raise Phoenix’s offensive ceiling and energize the home crowd.

🚑 Lakers Adjusting Without Austin Reaves

While Phoenix eyes reinforcements, the Lakers will be shorthanded.

Austin Reaves remains sidelined with a calf strain after playing a major role in Los Angeles’ early-season success. His playmaking alongside Luka Dončić and LeBron James has been difficult to replace.

Marcus Smart is expected to step into the starting lineup to provide defensive intensity, while Jake LaRavia could see additional minutes off the bench.

📉 Western Conference Implications

The NBA Cup loss didn’t just end the Lakers’ tournament run — it also contributed to a slide in the Western Conference standings.

Los Angeles dropped to fifth place after the defeat. While a win on Sunday won’t immediately restore their earlier position near the top, it could help them climb at least one spot and steady their footing.

🧩 Expected Starting Lineups

Lakers: LeBron James, Luka Dončić, Rui Hachimura, Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart

Suns: Devin Booker, Royce O’Neale, Dillon Brooks, Grayson Allen, Nick Williams

With both teams motivated to respond and key rotation pieces in flux, Sunday night’s matchup has the feel of an early-season measuring stick for two Western Conference hopefuls.