Philadelphia @ Los Angeles preview

Last Meeting ( Dec 7, 2017 ) L.A. Lakers 107, Philadelphia 104

All-Star center Joel Embiid is expected back in the lineup and swingman Jimmy Butler might be as well when the Philadelphia 76ers visit the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday. Embiid (back) sat out Saturday's 126-110 loss to the Denver Nuggets while Butler (wrist) missed the past three games.

The 76ers won nine of their past 13 games despite losing the opener of a four-game road trip while missing Embiid, Butler and forward Wilson Chandler (hamstring). "We did all right considering what we had to play," shooting guard JJ Redick told reporters after the setback. "Overall, we competed. We made mistakes. Young guys made mistakes. You move on." Lakers forward LeBron James (groin) has resumed practicing but is expected to miss his 17th straight contest since being injured against the Golden State Warriors on Christmas Day. Los Angeles is 6-10 without James after cruising to a 116-102 home win over the Phoenix Suns on Sunday.

TV: 10:30 p.m. ET, TNT

ABOUT THE 76ERS (32-18): Veteran swingman Corey Brewer has been in the starting lineup with Butler sidelined and he had 20 points, six rebounds and four steals in 32 minutes in just his fourth game since joining the squad. "I know I can play basketball," Brewer told reporters after the strong effort. "I felt like I should have been in the league, but other GMs didn't want me." Rookie guard Landry Shamet received 28 minutes against Denver and recorded a season-high seven assists but was just 2-of-6 shooting while scoring eight points.

ABOUT THE LAKERS (26-24): Los Angeles is putting together a patchwork starting lineup with James and point guard Lonzo Ball (ankle) sidelined and the club also was without forward Kyle Kuzma (hip) against the Suns. Kuzma is hopeful of playing against Philadelphia and the Lakers would like to get another big outing from center Ivica Zubac, who had 24 points and a career-best 16 rebounds versus Phoenix. "He does a great job of getting himself open," point guard Rajon Rondo told reporters after Sunday's win. "Finding the right spots, getting into the creases where the ball can reach him. And he's able to finish. He has great touch around the rim with both hands and he's probably one of the strongest bigs in the game."

BUZZER BEATERS

1. The Lakers won nine of the past 15 meetings.

2. Los Angeles SG Josh Hart (knee) departed Sunday's contest and is questionable to play against the 76ers.

3. Chandler (hamstring) is expected to return after sitting out against Denver.

PREDICTION: 76ers 109, Lakers 102