The Los Angeles Lakers officially begin their NBA title defense on Sunday. One thing's for sure entering their first-round matchup against the Phoenix Suns: LeBron James and Anthony Davis aren't fully healthy.

Whether they'll play or not is an entirely different matter. Both Lakers superstars appeared on the injury report, with Davis tagged with a right shoulder sprain and James with his lingering right ankle issue.

With them being listed as “probable,” does anyone expect either of them to miss the contest? The chances are truly slim. But that just means they won't be playing at 100%. LeBron James spoke out previously about his ankle injury, stating he's all set for the showdown.

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For as much as the Phoenix Suns have been ridiculed for nabbing the 2nd seed in the West only to face the defending champion Lakers, they're a young, well-rested side that will be unrelenting all series.

The Los Angeles Lakers looked downright beatable against the one-man attack of Stephen Curry's Golden State Warriors. With a deep, talented team that has found success in the regular season, the Suns are a real threat to dethrone the King and his men.

Of course, the postseason is a different animal. LeBron James and Anthony Davis have been here before, and the Suns' core, apart from Chris Paul, simply have not. Lakers vs. Suns will be an intriguing battle that could very well go to seven games.