Preview: Lakers Visit Suns in Rematch of Recent Rout PHOENIX (Interstat) — The Los Angeles Lakers seek both redemption and to solidify their strong start when they visit the Phoenix Suns on Sunday at Mortgage Matchup Center, a quick turnaround from a decisive loss to their Pacific Division rivals earlier this month. The Lakers (17-7) enter with the better record but are looking to bounce back from a 119-132 home loss to San Antonio on Wednesday. They also carry the memory of a 125-108 defeat to these Suns on Dec. 1 in Los Angeles. LeBron James was limited to 10 points in that contest, one of his quieter performances in an otherwise stellar season for the 40-year-old forward. James remains the focal point, coming off a 19-point, 15-rebound, 8-assist effort against the Spurs. Over his last 10 games, he has averaged a near triple-double, facilitating the offense alongside guard Luka Doncic, who scored 35 in the loss to San Antonio. The Phoenix Suns (14-11) have been inconsistent, following a strong win over Minnesota with a 49-point road loss to Oklahoma City on the same night the Lakers fell. In that blowout, guard Jamaree Bouyea led the Suns with 14 points and six assists. Bouyea, who had 7 points and 5 assists in the Dec. 1 win over L.A., has seen increased minutes recently and will be a player to watch in the backcourt. Phoenix’s victory earlier this month was comprehensive, shooting over 52% from the field while holding the Lakers to 43% shooting. Replicating that defensive effort will be key against a Lakers team that ranks near the top of the league in offensive rating. For Los Angeles, re-establishing their defensive identity after allowing 132 points to the Spurs is the immediate concern. The Lakers had won five straight prior to the losses to Phoenix and San Antonio. The season series will continue just nine days later when the Lakers return to Phoenix on Dec. 23. Sunday’s matchup offers the Lakers a chance to avenge their worst loss of the season and halt a minor skid, while the Suns aim to build momentum and prove their first win was no fluke. Tip-off is scheduled for 6 p.m. MST.