Overview
- NBA’s official report lists Dončić (left finger sprain, left leg contusion) and Smart (right quad contusion) as questionable for Friday in Memphis.
- Coach J.J. Redick called Dončić’s leg issue day-to-day and noted reduced finger swelling, signaling hope of a return after three missed games despite an earlier one‑week outlook.
- LeBron James remains out with right-side sciatica, with multiple reports indicating a mid‑November return window.
- Gabe Vincent, Maxi Kleber and Adou Thiero remain sidelined, leaving Austin Reaves to headline a 3‑2 start as the Lakers begin NBA Cup group play.
- Reaves’ five‑game burst (34.2 points and 10.0 assists per game, including 51 and 41 points) has spurred projections of a massive next contract and trade interest, which remain speculative.