The Los Angeles Lakers might be getting some much-needed help for Friday’s matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. Per Dave McMenamin, star guard Luka Doncic has been upgraded to questionable as he recovers from a left finger sprain and lower left leg contusion. It’s a promising sign for Los Angeles after Doncic missed multiple games with the injury.
Marcus Smart has also been listed as questionable with a right quad contusion, while several key players remain out, including LeBron James (right sciatica), Maxi Kleber (abdominal muscle strain), Adou Thiero (left knee surgery recovery), and Gabe Vincent (left ankle sprain). No timetable has been released for their return.
For the Grizzlies, Brandon Clarke (right knee surgery recovery), Zach Edey (left ankle surgery recovery), Ty Jerome (right calf strain), and Scotty Pippen Jr. (left great toe surgery recovery) are all ruled out.
The Lakers are currently 3-2 to start the season and are looking to build on their momentum after back-to-back wins. Getting Doncic back in the lineup would provide a major boost to their offense, which has leaned heavily on Austin Reaves in recent games. He’s been the hero of the Lakers this season, highlighted by a 51-point performance against Sacramento.
Thanks to his efforts and strong shooting from Jake LaRavia, the Lakers have held their own so far with wins over the Timberwolves and Kings. Even amid the absence of several key players, they’ve managed to stay competitive against tough opponents. But now, with Luka’s return imminent, they can get back on track as a true title contender. In two games this season, the superstar guard is averaging 46.0 points, 11.5 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game on 62.0% shooting, and he’s only just getting started.
Meanwhile, there’s still no word yet on how LeBron James’ recovery is progressing. Sciatica injuries are known to linger, and he’s been dealing with this one since July. At 40 years old, the strategy is caution, and he’s in no hurry to rush back and risk his health. With his return not expected until next month, the Lakers can safely rule LeBron out for the next few games, but it shouldn’t be too long before he’s back in action.
For now, the Lakers will continue their “next man up” mentality. In a season that’s already been riddled with injuries, the Lakers are digging deep to find balance and keep the team afloat until their stars return.
The good news is their offseason additions have provided enough depth for them to remain competitive without their biggest names. It remains to be seen if their current play will hold up in the postseason, but by then, LeBron James should be fully healthy and ready to lead another run.
Ultimately, the Lakers have proven they can fight through adversity, but the real test begins once Luka Doncic and LeBron James are back in uniform. Their return will determine how far this team can truly go, and if the early-season resilience can translate into something greater. For now, the Lakers are staying afloat on grit, chemistry, and belief, waiting for their stars to bring them back to full strength.
