The Los Angeles Lakers have transformed into legitimate title contenders since acquiring Luka Dončić, winning 20 of their last 26 games and surging to the Western Conference's No.2 seed. Now, as the playoffs approach, the team is preparing to make a critical roster adjustment involving their defensive specialist Jordan Goodwin.

Lakers could convert two-way defensive specialist before playoffs; front office weighs contract decisions as championship push intensifies.

The Los Angeles Lakers have been rolling for nearly the last few months and are near sure-fire NBA title contenders, thanks to the Luka Dončić trade. Still, per NBA Insider Eric Pincus, the Lakers will likely adjust their roster for a postseason run.

The Los Angeles Lakers have a relatively solidified eight-man rotation as they head into the stretch run of the season. Head coach JJ Redick has his starting lineup and three solid bench players in Jarred Vanderbilt,

Jayson Tatum had 40 points, 12 rebounds, and eight assists, and the Boston Celtics held off a late rally to beat the Los Angeles Lakers 111-101.

Iffy for Thursday

Goodwin (ankle) has been ruled out for Thursday's game against the Knicks, Daniel Starkand of LakersNation.com reports. Goodwin will miss a third straight game Thursday, as the Lakers newcomer continues to nurse a sprained right ankle.

If the Lakers are to keep Jordan Goodwin and/or Trey Jemison III through the playoffs, they will have to clear roster spots for them.

JJ Redick confirmed that Rui Hachimura is in the "return to play" protocol but won’t have update on his status until sometime next week.