The NBA preseason tips off in style with the Los Angeles Lakers vs Phoenix Suns game this Friday at the Acrisure Arena. More than just a warm-up, this matchup sets the stage for the 2025-26 season with two historic Western Conference rivals testing new lineups, strategies, and depth. Both teams enter with different trajectories from last year, but the intensity of their rivalry ensures an exciting start to the basketball calendar. Early predictions give the Los Angeles Lakers a slight advantage, largely due to their past success against the Suns and their consistency in recent meetings. Playing at home further boosts their chances. Still, Los Angeles is dealing with key absences - most notably LeBron James - which could disrupt their rhythm. That gives Phoenix, with Devin Booker

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