Timberwolves at Lakers
THE STORY: The Los Angeles Lakers got younger and faster Thursday, but did they get better? The Lakers sent veteran point guard Derek Fisher to Houston for center Jordan Hill just after acquiring point guard Ramon Sessions from Cleveland for Luke Walton, Jason Kapono and a first-round pick. The Lakers seek their 19th consecutive victory over visiting Minnesota on Friday. The Timberwolves have not beaten the Lakers since March 6, 2007.
TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, FS North (Timberwolves), FS West (Lakers)
ABOUT THE TIMBERWOLVES (22-22): The Timberwolves got a scare when Kevin Love injured his thumb and had it taped in a 111-105 overtime loss Thursday to Utah. Turns out it was just a sprain and he is expected to play against the Lakers. Love missed the past two games against the Lakers because he was ill and then had back spasms. Forward Michael Beasley (sore big toe) did not play for the Timberwolves and is questionable Friday. He nearly got traded to the Lakers just before the deadline, according to the Los Angeles Times.
ABOUT THE LAKERS (27-16): Pau Gasol was the player most mentioned in trade speculation, but general manager Mitch Kupchak made the difficult decision to get rid of Fisher, who was part of five NBA championship teams in 13 seasons with the Lakers. “We think Ramon will make an immediate impact,” Kupchak said. “Despite Derek's presence, we felt that we needed more speed and more quickness in the backcourt.” Steve Blake will start at point guard until Sessions arrives Sunday. The Lakers seek their season-best fifth consecutive victory.
BUZZER BEATERS:
1. The 18 consecutive wins by the Lakers is the longest active win streak by one NBA team against another. Minnesota has lost 11 in a row at Staples Center, last winning there on Dec. 2, 2005.
2. Fisher, 37, will play Saturday at Staples Center against the Clippers and face the Lakers on Tuesday in Houston.
3. Friday’s game will be the third between the Lakers and Timberwolves in 17 days.