wolves gameday

9:30 P.M. • at los angeles lakers • staples center • FSN, 830-AM

Preview: Something's got to give. The 16-62 Wolves have lost eight consecutive games after Wednesday's 116-91 loss at Portland, and the 20-58 Lakers have lost five in a row and seven of their past eight after their 119-101 loss at Denver that same night. At stake is position for lottery chances: The Wolves remain aimed at the NBA's second-worst record — and second-best lotto chances — while the Lakers have the fourth-worst record. … Friday completes a four-game season series, which the Lakers lead 2-1 after winning the past two games at Target Center.

Players to watch: Since becoming a starter 35 games ago, Lakers rookie point guard Jordan Clarkson is averaging more than 15 points, nearly five assists and four rebounds a game. Wednesday's 21-point night in Denver was his ninth 20-point game this season. He has done it six times in his past 10 games, including one 30-point game.

Injuries: Wolves F Kevin Garnett (sore knee) is doubtful, G Ricky Rubio (ankle), C Gorgui Dieng (concussion-like symptoms), C Nikola Pekovic (Achilles' tendon surgery), F Anthony Bennett (ankle), G Gary Neal (ankle), F Shabazz Muhammad (finger surgery) are out. For the Lakers, G Kobe Bryant (rotator cuff surgery), G Wayne Ellington (shoulder separation), F Julius Randle (leg fracture), G Nick Young (fractured kneecap), G Ronnie Price (elbow surgery) are listed as out.

jerry zgoda