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By Bryan Colbert Jr.
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The Los Angeles Lakers have wasted little time making a statement to begin the 2026-27 NBA season, but their undefeated start will face another test Tuesday night.
Los Angeles enters its matchup against the Portland Trail Blazers with a perfect 3-0 record, while Portland arrives at Crypto.com Arena also unbeaten at 2-0.
Both teams have showcased explosive offenses through the opening week, setting the stage for an intriguing Western Conference showdown.
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The Lakers have been led by Luka Doncic, who is coming off one of the most impressive performances of the young season. Doncic erupted for 52 points and 10 assists in Sunday's 132-123 victory over the Utah Jazz, helping Los Angeles overcome an 18-point deficit to remain undefeated.
The six-time All-Star is averaging 34.3 points, eight assists and 7.3 rebounds through three games, establishing himself as the driving force behind the Lakers' early success.
Austin Reaves has also played a significant role, averaging 26.7 points per game while providing another reliable scoring option alongside Doncic.
However, Portland’s new-look squad has also been impressive.
The Trail Blazers opened their season with a dominant 124-83 victory over the Phoenix Suns before defeating the Sacramento Kings 128-120.
Portland's revamped roster features Damian Lillard, Ja Morant and Deni Avdija, giving the team multiple offensive weapons capable of putting pressure on opposing defenses.
Avdija led Portland with 26 points against Sacramento, while Lillard and Toumani Camara contributed 19 points apiece.
The matchup features the NBA's two highest-scoring teams entering Tuesday, with Los Angeles averaging 128 points per game and Portland close behind at 126.
While the Lakers have demonstrated their ability to score in bunches, their defense could determine whether they extend their winning streak.
Los Angeles has allowed at least 117 points in each of its last two games, leaving room for improvement against a Portland team capable of generating offense from several positions.
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The Trail Blazers also won two of their three meetings against the Lakers last season, although Doncic missed all three contests.
Tuesday's game offers both teams an opportunity to prove their impressive starts are more than an early-season hot streak.
With two undefeated records on the line, one Western Conference contender will leave Crypto.com Arena with its first loss of the season.
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