Lakers: Predictions for Week 17

The Lakers lost both their games in Week 16 and have won just 11 of their first 55 games.

They’ll play another two through Week 17, hosting the San Antonio Spurs (45-8) and visiting the Chicago Bulls (27-25).

Friday vs. San Antonio Spurs

The Spurs are the second-best team in the league by record, just 3 1/2 games behind the Golden State Warriors (48-4).

While Manu Ginobili is out with a groin issue, the Spurs are otherwise healthy and should be rested by Friday, although Tony Parker (ankle) and Matt Bonner (calf) have been sidelined recently.

San Antonio boasts two 2016 All-Stars in Kawhi Leonard and LaMarcus Aldridge, and former All-Stars Tim Duncan, David West and Parker.

The Lakers have played relatively well recently, but have still dropped three straight games and probably a fourth on Friday.

Prediction: Spurs

Sunday at Chicago Bulls

The Bulls have struggled with injuries, notably to All-Star guard Jimmy Butler, currently sidelined by a knee sprain. Additionally, center Joakim Noah is out for the year with a shoulder injury, and forward Nikola Mirotic recently had his appendix removed.

Even with Pau Gasol, who played in Sunday’s All-Star game, Chicago has lost four straight.

The Lakers aren’t as good as the Bulls this season, but with the Bulls short-handed, and the Lakers playing improved ball over the last week or so, this is a winnable game for Los Angeles. In Kobe Bryant’s final Chicago appearance, the Lakers should be able to pull out a rare road victory.

Prediction: Lakers

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