Lakers vs. Washington Wizards preview

The Washington Wizards (30-15) are currently in second place in the Eastern Conference. The Lakers (12-33) are ahead of just the Minnesota Timberwolves (7-37) in the West.

On Tuesday night, the Lakers will try to end an eight-game losing streak against the Wizards.

The two teams met in on Dec. 3 in Washington, the Wizards easing into a 111-95 victory.

Former Wizard Nick Young is questionable for the Lakers with a sprained ankle.

Kobe Bryant (rotator cuff), Julius Randle (knee) and Steve Nash (back) are all out for the season.

Key matchup

Wizards point guard John Wall was voted in as a starter for the Eastern Conference All-Star team by the fans.

In December, the Lakers had a difficult time containing Wall, who scored 17 points with 16 assists.

Coach Byron Scott has turned to rookie Jordan Clarkson, hoping to develop him as an NBA point guard.

Clarkson is fast and athletic, but needs to slow down and learn how to play with a varying pace throughout a game.

The Wizards and Wall will be another difficult test for Clarkson.

X-factor

Bradley Beal led the Wizards with 27 points against the Lakers in December.

The young shooting guard can score in a hurry. The Lakers will counter with Wayne Ellington.

Other defensive options might include Ronnie Price, Jeremy Lin, Wesley Johnson, Young (if available) and Clarkson.

Jeremy Lin had a difficult game against the Wizards, missing all 10 of his shot attempts. The Lakers are much more competitive when Lin is aggressive and efficient.

Outlook

The Wizards are fighting for playoff positon in the Eastern Conference, while the Lakers are injured, focusing on developing their younger players, and likely to lose on Tuesday night.

Email Eric Pincus at eric.pincus@gmail.com and follow him on Twitter @EricPincus.