Preview: Thunder at Lakers LOS ANGELES (Interstat) — The surging Los Angeles Lakers host the powerhouse Oklahoma City Thunder on Monday night at crypto.com Arena in a marquee interconference matchup. The Thunder (40-13) enter with the NBA’s second-best record but are looking to rebound from back-to-back losses, including a 112-106 defeat to Houston on Saturday. Oklahoma City had won three straight prior to the recent skid. The Lakers (32-19) have won four of their last five, most recently a 105-99 victory over Golden State on Saturday. They sit firmly in the Western Conference playoff picture. A key matchup will feature Oklahoma City’s emerging guard Cason Wallace against Lakers star LeBron James. Wallace is coming off a 23-point, four-rebound, four-assist performance against the Rockets and has averaged 18.4 points over his last five games. James, in his 23rd season, remains a triple-double threat, averaging 20.0 points, 7.8 rebounds and 8.0 assists over his last five contests. He posted 20 points, seven rebounds and 10 assists in the win over Golden State. In their only previous meeting this season, the Thunder dominated the Lakers 121-92 in Oklahoma City on Nov. 12. Oklahoma City’s offense, ranked near the top of the league, will test a Lakers defense that has been inconsistent. The Thunder’s recent losses have featured defensive lapses, allowing an average of 114 points in defeats to Houston and San Antonio. The Lakers continue their homestand Tuesday against San Antonio. The Thunder continue a road trip Wednesday in Phoenix. Tip-off is set for 7:30 p.m. PST.