Stephen Curry Golden State Warriors
Stephen Curry was one of the best players in the first round of the playoffs. Reuters

The last two games haven’t exactly reflected how well the Los Angeles Lakers had been playing since the All-Star Break.

L.A. has dropped its last two contests after winning 11-of-14 games after the break. On Monday night, the Lakers will look to stop that trend and start a new winning streak.

The Lakers are scheduled to visit the Golden State Warriors at 10:30 p.m. ET. Viewers can watch the game nationally on NBA TV.

Both Kobe Bryant and Pau Gasol returned from injuries in the Lakers Friday night game against the Wizards. Still, L.A. fell 103-100 to a non-playoff contender.

Offensively, Bryant didn’t show many ill effects from his sprained ankle. He scored 21 points, going 8-18 from the field. He also dished out 11 assists in the loss.

Gasol had one of his worst games upon his return. He made just two of his 10 shot attempts, totaling four points and eight rebounds. He played just 20 minutes and has yet to build up his conditioning to where he can play over 30 minutes a night.

Fortunately for the Lakers, the Warriors' best player is hobbled. Stephen Curry injured his ankle in Golden State’s contest with Washington on Saturday night. He had to leave the game after scoring 35 points and registering eight assists. He is unlikely to suit up on Monday.

Curry’s quickness and ability to shoot makes him a difficult matchup for either Bryant or Steve Nash. He has struggled against the Lakers, though, this year. L.A. is 2-0 against Golden State, and Curry is just 13-39 against Los Angeles.

The Lakers are looking to pick up their first win with their full complement of stars in the starting lineup. Dwight Howard, Metta World Peace, Bryant, Gasol and Nash have started six games together, winning none of them.

The contest is expected to be very close between the two Western Conference playoff teams. On the road, the Lakers are getting just one point at most Las Vegas casino.

Prediction: Golden State 100, Los Angeles 97

NBA