Lakers playoff picture: Scenarios, potential first-round matchups

Breaking down the Los Angeles Lakers’ remaining schedule and potential playoff matchups.

The Los Angeles Lakers dropped a pivotal game against the Clippers on Wednesday night, but with two games left and a logjam remaining in the Western Conference standings, the Lakers could finish anywhere from fifth to ninth in the conference by the end of Sunday.

The Clippers, Warriors, Lakers, Pelicans and Timberwolves are separated by just two games in the standings, meaning the Lakers’ playoff route will not be determined until the final day of the regular season. Most teams will hope for a first-round matchup with the Sacramento Kings, but series against the Nuggets, Grizzlies and Suns are all also possible.

Here’s a full breakdown of the Lakers’ position in the Western Conference: