The Los Angeles Lakers will aim to bounce back Wednesday night as they face off against the Memphis Grizzlies, a team that bested them last week. Determined to protect their perfect home record, the Lakers are bolstered by promising news: Anthony Davis, who missed the previous matchup against Memphis, is expected to play. Could his presence be the missing piece in the Lakers’ plan to reclaim victory?
Davis’s return sets up an exciting clash with Jaren Jackson Jr., Memphis’s rising star. Jackson has been on fire recently, posting a season-high 39 points against the Wizards and leading the Grizzlies with 20 points in their win over the Trail Blazers. With Davis back, Memphis may need to tweak their approach, though Jackson remains unfazed: “I thought he was going to play last game, so it’s the same preparation,” he said.
The Lakers head into this matchup on a two-game winning streak, buoyed by Davis’s return and a boost of confidence. Although Wednesday’s game won’t affect the NBA’s new tournament standings, it’s a valuable opportunity for the Lakers to build momentum before they open their NBA Cup run against the San Antonio Spurs on Friday.
Despite missing star Ja Morant, Memphis has managed to keep its offense firing, averaging 131 points over its last two games. In a display of their depth, seven Grizzlies players scored in double digits in each of their past three wins, with bench player Jay Huff tying a franchise record with six blocks.
Injury Report & Roster Notes
– Anthony Davis: After being sidelined with a minor eye injury during the Raptors game, Davis confirmed he’s ready for action against Memphis. Although still managing plantar fasciitis, he dismissed the idea of wearing protective goggles, reinforcing that he’s game-ready.
– D’Angelo Russell: Due to an illness, Russell missed Tuesday’s practice, but he’s also listed as probable for Wednesday’s game.
– Jaxson Hayes: Initially listed as probable, Hayes is now questionable due to an ankle sprain.
– Christian Wood: Head coach JJ Redick revealed that Wood experienced a setback in his rehab, pushing his return out by at least four weeks.
– Jalen Hood-Schifino: Recently injured during South Bay’s G League opener, he’s out alongside Jarred Vanderbilt.
Meanwhile, the Grizzlies may be getting a boost of their own:
– Marcus Smart: After missing six games with a right ankle sprain, Smart returned to full practice on Tuesday and is listed as questionable, potentially a game-time decision. Coach Taylor Jenkins commented, “We’ll see how he wakes up tomorrow.”
– Ja Morant & Desmond Bane: Both remain out, classified as “week-to-week.” While Morant has shown progress in his recovery, he’s still limited by a hip injury, and Bane is gradually increasing his physical activities.
Other Injuries on the Grizzlies’ Side
– Gregory Jackson: Recovering from a fractured fifth metatarsal and is expected to miss at least three months.
– Vince Williams Jr.: Listed as doubtful with a lower leg injury, Williams has been working to regain game shape with the Memphis Hustle.
– Cam Spencer: Out due to a talar stress reaction following an ankle injury during Summer League.
The Grizzlies bring formidable depth and have found ways to challenge the Lakers, particularly by exploiting gaps in defense. For the Lakers, securing rebounds and maintaining defensive intensity will be crucial to offset Memphis’s balanced scoring.
Following Sunday’s win over the Raptors, which pushed them to 6-4, the Lakers have a strong shot at a third consecutive victory. Facing a 7-4 Grizzlies squad, the game promises to be intense and could set the tone for the rest of the season series.
