Overview
- L.A.’s official injury report upgrades Dončić (left finger sprain, left leg contusion) and Smart (right quad contusion) to questionable for Friday in Memphis.
- LeBron James remains out with right-side sciatica, with Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber and Adou Thiero also sidelined.
- Head coach JJ Redick said Dončić’s swelling has subsided and labeled his contusion day-to-day, indicating progress without confirming availability.
- Austin Reaves has carried the offense during the absences, averaging roughly 40 points and 10 assists over the last three games and hitting a game-winner at Minnesota.
- Friday marks the Lakers’ first NBA Cup group game, as media chatter grows about Reaves’ rising market value and future, which remains speculative at this stage.