The Lakers will have much closer to a full roster on Friday night as they begin NBA Cup play.
Luka Dončić will be available, making his return to the Lakers after missing the past three games due to a finger
sprain and lower left leg contusion.
Los Angeles will also have Marcus Smart back. He missed the last two contests due to a right quad contusion.
Both Smart and Dončić were initially listed as questionable to play against the Grizzlies, but were upgraded to probable on Friday morning. They are now officially available to play.
Obviously, Luka playing gives the Lakers a much better chance of winning on Friday. Luka is a superstar and reminded everyone of that when he scored 49 points in the season opener.
That was also the game where his lower left leg contusion problems began. Then, in the second game of the year, he sprained his finger and has not played since.
Luckily, these injuries have improved, and head coach JJ Redick stated that Luka was considered day-to-day on Wednesday. Now he’s back and can continue to lead the Lakers on the floor.
Smart isn’t the caliber of player Luka is, but he’s an excellent defensive guard who brings tenacity to the lineup. He has the best plus-minus on the team at +34 on the season, indicating the positive value he brings to the Lakers. With Gabe Vincent still out with a left ankle sprain, it’s very possible Smart will be starting against the Grizzlies.
With four players still out for the Lakers, including LeBron James, they need as many people to play as possible.
Despite all the injuries, the Lakers have been able to stay above .500. This is largely because Austin Reaves is off to his best start in his career. He scored 51 points in a win against the Kings and hit the game-winner on the road in Minnesota.
Now that he has his backcourt partner, Luka, back, the two can continue building on their chemistry.
Beating the Grizzlies would give the Lakers a good start in NBA Cup play. They are in West Group B and are looking to win the NBA Cup for the second time in franchise history.
You can follow Edwin on Twitter at @ECreates88 or on Bluesky at @ecreates88.bsky.social.
