The Los Angeles Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies face significant injury concerns ahead of Friday’s NBA Cup West Group B matchup at FedExForum in Memphis. Tip-off is set for 9:30 PM ET.
Luka Doncic is listed as questionable with a left finger sprain and a lower left leg contusion. Marcus Smart is also questionable due to a right quad contusion. LeBron James, Maxi Kleber, Adou Thiero, and Gabe Vincent are out with injuries ranging from sciatica to surgery recovery.
The Lakers have started the season 3–2, with Doncic averaging 46.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 8.5 assists in two games played. Austin Reaves has contributed 34.2 points and 10.0 assists per game, while Deandre Ayton averages 16.0 points and 9.4 rebounds.
Memphis will be without Brandon Clarke, Zach Edey, Ty Jerome, and Scotty Pippen Jr., all sidelined with injuries requiring surgery or recovery. Ja Morant leads the Grizzlies with 23.4 points and 6.6 assists per game, while Jaren Jackson Jr. adds 17.6 points and 5.2 rebounds.
Injury management will be key for the Lakers, as Doncic’s availability could determine their offensive flow and playmaking. Smart’s status will affect perimeter defense and rotation flexibility.
The Grizzlies will lean on Morant and Jackson Jr. to maintain their 3–2 start, relying on the depth of their rotation to compensate for missing frontcourt and guard players. Santi Aldama and Cedric Coward have been notable contributors, averaging double-digit scoring in the early season.
