USA TODAY Sports

Coming off of a one-game absence, Los Angeles Lakers starting point guard D'Angelo Russell (knee) is set to return from his one-game absence tonight against the New Orleans Pelicans.

This is huge for the Lakers, as Russell was sorely missed last night in their tough loss to the Denver Nuggets.

Without him, the team put up a mere 106 points and shot just 8/25 from 3-point range. Their best shooter, and second-best on-ball creator/passer, Russell could've potentially swung the game. 

Tonight, expect a heavy dose of him against a surging Pelicans team that has won 4 straight. Coming off of two statement wins – a 38-point win against the Raptors and an 11-point win against the Clippers, New Orleans will look to attack Russell on defense while limiting him on offense. 

Presumably, he'll return to the starting lineup alongside Austin Reaves, LeBron James, Rui Hachimura, and Anthony Davis, absent any changes. 

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