There’s a lot to make note of when the Los Angeles Lakers host the Memphis Grizzlies at the Crypto.com Arena. For starters, the franchise will be honoring former legend Pau Gasol by retiring his iconic No. 16 jersey. Next up, both teams will be without their big superstars.
LeBron James’ timetable to return might be more than three weeks, and Ja Morant’s return from suspension has no timeline either. Amid all this is the big picture of the Lakers trying to make the playoffs. They are now close to getting there after Anthony Davis sealed a win for them with his dominant performance against the Golden State Warriors.
But they’d be echoing Kobe Bryant’s “job not finished” as they gear up for what will be their most important stretch of games, and it starts against a team that’s perched pretty in the West with a 38-25 record and second in the standings.
LA is far from elite right now, but the new-look side has shown spunk and spirit despite adversities. They have latched on to any form of momentum and will look to continue in the same vein against the Grizzlies, who are dealing with issues in the locker room, courtesy of Morant.
On that note, here’s a look at how the team shapes up in the loss of their big names, the injury report, and the predictions in store.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Lakers, as expected, will be without D’Angelo Russell (ankle) and James (ankle). Joining the two on the list is Mo Bamba, who suffered a sprained ankle against Golden State. Per ESPN’s updated injury report, Davis is listed as probable, but he will most likely suit up.
Expect the Lakers to go with the same unit they fielded against the Warriors. Dennis Schroder (G), Malik Beasley (G), Troy Brown Jr. (F), Jarred Vanderbilt (F), and Anthony Davis (C).
Memphis Grizzlies Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Grizzlies will be without the services of Steven Adams, Vince Williams Jr., Brandon Clarke, and Morant. Jake LaVaria has been listed as questionable.
Tyus Jones (G), Desmond Bane (G), David Roddy (F), Jaren Jackson Jr. (F), and Xavier Tillman (C) might be the projected starters for Memphis
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies Predictions
The Lakers surely enter as favorites, especially after their gutsy win against Golden State and the fact that they have a chance to make Gasol’s evening more special.
Without Adams and Morant, Memphis will have its hands full trying to stop Davis and stop the energy that Vanderbilt brings onto the floor. Add to this that the team is on a two-game slide. It’s advantage Lakers even if they are without James. A win on Tuesday will put them on track to booking a postseason berth.
We’d go with the Lakers for this contest. But the Grizzlies can come out clawing with their backs against the wall, so never say never.
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