A major step in the race for the top spots

This matchup brings together two teams near the top of the standings, with Atlanta at #4 and Los Angeles at #1. The Lakers will be without Luka Dončić, officially out with a back issue, shifting more offensive responsibility toward Austin Reaves. The Hawks enter with Jalen Johnson available and a four-game winning streak. Recent NBA.com reporting also points to an expanded offensive role for Reaves with Dončić sidelined. ([nba.com](https://www.nba.com/news/luka-doncic-out-lakers-game-vs-pistons?utm_source=openai))