Preview: Lakers get a quick rematch against the Oklahoma City Thunder

On Tuesday, the Lakers got their first win against a Western Conference opponent this season, defeating the Denver Nuggets, 111-107.

They’ll get their fifth chance to build a winning streak this season, but they’ll have the difficult task of hosting the Oklahoma City Thunder on the second night of a back-to-back on Wednesday at Staples Center.

Playing without Kobe Bryant on Saturday, the Lakers were blown out in Oklahoma City, 118-78.

On Tuesday, Bryant returned after nursing a sore shoulder to lead all scorers with 31 points in 32 minutes. Can he get back out on the court less than 24 hours later, to help the Lakers try to challenge the Thunder?

Key matchup

The Thunder duo of Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook continue to be a problem for the rest of the league.

Both hit big shots down the stretch on Monday night, closing out the Clippers on the road.

On the season, Durant is averaging 26.8 points a game, while Westbrook is close behind at 25.4, along with 9.4 assists a night.

The Lakers would normally put Bryant against Durant, but when Kobe sat on Saturday, rookie Anthony Brown got his first start against the former NBA most valuable player.

Jordan Clarkson will likely draw Westbrook, one of the most difficult point guards in the NBA to defend.

X-factor

The Thunder’s Enes Kanter scored 19 points with 14 rebounds off the bench in 23 minutes against the Lakers on Saturday.

Julius Randle did not fare well, missing six of seven shots to score just two points with seven rebounds, along with five turnovers.

Outlook

Oklahoma City is one of the best teams in the league. The Lakers have a difficult challenge ahead -- one they are unlikely to overcome.

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