The action shifts to the FedEx Forum, where the Memphis Grizzlies will look to bounce back with a win and keep their 2023 playoff hopes alive against a belligerent Los Angeles Lakers unit.
The Lakers rolled out two consecutive wins to go up 3-1 in the series and are just one win away from eliminating the Grizzlies. The only obstacle in their way is fatigue to both their stars, LeBron James and Anthony Davis.
As for Memphis, they will rely heavily on Ja Morant, who tried his best to save the side in Game 4 but couldn’t. And to make matters worse, he appeared to have injured his hand again after barreling against James on Monday.
Meanwhile, LA will hope that the likes of Davis and D’Angelo Russell will fire, given their quiet run so far in the playoffs. The Lakers will surely have a fight on their hands on Wednesday, and they will have to make one more push to make sure they close the series out.
On that note, here is a look at the projected starters, the injury report from both camps, and the predictions.
Memphis Grizzlies Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Grizzlies will be without the services of Steven Adams (knee) and Brandon Clarke (Achilles). Also missing the clash will be Jake LaRavia (calf).
And while Morant continues to recover from injury, he will almost certainly take the floor for the side. Desmond Bane (G), Ja Morant (G), Jaren Jackson Jr. (F), Dillon Brooks (F), and Xavier Tillman (C) are likely to be the starters.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
The Lakers are healthy, and that’s a rarity. James and Davis have been regular fixtures in the team’s injury report, and per ESPN’s updated list, they are probable for Game 5, making them certainties to play.
D’Angelo Russell (G), Austin Reaves (G), LeBron James (F), Jarred Vanderbilt (F), and Anthony Davis (C) are the projected starters for the Lakers.
Memphis Grizzlies vs. Los Angeles Lakers Predictions
Earlier, the Lakers’ head coach outlined the stress on James’ body, especially after his superhuman effort in Game 4.
“He’s feeling it, man,” Lakers coach Ham according to LA Times. “But at the end of the day, he’s in great shape. It’s more fatigue than anything that’s bothering him physically. And that’s a huge difference. He can re-energize.”
And while he can, the question is if he can muster up enough to push the purple and gold into the next round. With Davis blowing hot and cold, the onus will be on the veteran to deliver.
Morant has been stellar but has lacked help in the scoring department. Add to this injuries to the frontcourt, and they head into the skirmish with their backs against the wall. The Lakers are favorites to have this one in the bag, but expect the Grizzlies to come out swinging.
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