The Los Angeles Lakers play host to the Minnesota Timberwolves at Staples Center on Thursday.

The Timberwolves (23-24) come into this matchup in the midst of a modest two-game winning streak, albeit both games coming against the putrid Phoenix Suns. With that said, Minnesota owns a 6-3 record across their last nine games, as they're hopeful this is the start of a playoff run. While Derrick Rose has been a pleasant surprise, it's clear that Karl-Anthony Towns is the straw that stirs the drink for this team. He's been especially good recently, averaging 26.1 points, 14.6 rebounds, 3.9 assists, 1.2 steals and 2.1 blocks across his last 14 games. Those are MVP-type numbers and he appears well on his way to yet another all-star appearance. In order to take the next step, they need more from Andrew Wiggins though. The top-pick has mixed stellar performances with duds throughout his career and Minnesota fans need to see some consistency before he wears out his welcome. They also need more from Jeff Teague, as he has been in and out of the lineup due to differing leg issues. Getting those two guys playing at their potential could get this team into the playoffs, as that's the only thing that would make this season not disappointing.

The Lakers (25-23) are really hurting right now and they could use some reinforcements. The good news is that they are on the way, with LeBron James and Rajon Rondo nearing a return. While James isn't expected to return for this game, Rondo is. The reason Rondo is needed more than ever is the fact that Lonzo Ball got injured himself, as he'll be out for at least four weeks. Rondo and Ball are actually very similar players and it should make for an easy swap considering their skill sets. There's no one that can replace King James though, as this team has been terrible without him. In fact, Los Angeles has lost 13 of their last 21 games, dropping them out of a playoff spot in the west. Where they're really hurting right now is on the defensive end, with the Lakers allowing at least 128 points in three-straight games. That obviously won't get it done and leadership from guys like James and Rondo will definitely help that out too.

This marks the fourth and final meeting between these teams, with Minnesota prevailing in two of three. In fact, the home team has won in all three matchups this season.