The stage is set for a high-stakes NBA rematch as the Memphis Grizzlies return to Los Angeles to face the Lakers on January 4, 2026. This game comes just two days after their previous encounter, where the Lakers secured a 128-121 victory. Both squads have minimal recovery time, adding a layer of fatigue to an already tense Western Conference battle.
Injury Woes Dominate Pre-Game Narrative
The availability of key players, rather than tactical matchups, is the central story. The Grizzlies' injury list is particularly concerning, headlined by star guard Ja Morant, who is listed as Questionable due to a right calf contusion. His potential absence would be a massive blow for Memphis.
The Grizzlies' full injury report includes:
- Ja Morant (PG): Questionable (Right Calf; Contusion)
- Santi Aldama (PF): Questionable (Right Ankle; Soreness)
- Brandon Clarke (PF), Zach Edey (C), Vince Williams Jr. (SG), John Konchar (SG), Ty Jerome (SG), Scotty Pippen Jr. (PG): All Out with various injuries.
- Olivier-Maxence Prosper and Javon Small are with the G League.
The Lakers are also navigating their own health issues. Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura are both Out with left and right calf strains, respectively. Adou Thiero and Gabe Vincent are also sidelined. Center Drew Timme is Questionable due to a concussion.
Standings, Stars, and Stakes
The Lakers enter this contest with a strong 21-11 record, holding fifth place in the competitive Western Conference. In contrast, the Grizzlies are struggling at 15-19 and are desperate to halt a three-game losing skid to stay in playoff contention.
All eyes will be on the marquee players. For Los Angeles, Luka Dončić is averaging a stellar 32 points, 5.5 rebounds, and 9.5 assists. He was instrumental in their win on January 2. The ageless LeBron James continues to contribute significantly with 24 points and 6.5 rebounds per game.
Memphis's hopes largely rest on the shoulders of Ja Morant, who averages 28 points and 7 assists when healthy. With Morant's status uncertain, an even heavier burden falls on Jaren Jackson Jr., especially on the defensive end.
Game Details, Broadcast Info, and Prediction
The game tips off at 9:30 p.m. ET (6:30 p.m. PT) at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles. Lakers fans can watch on SportsNet LA, while Grizzlies supporters have FanDuel Sports Network Southeast Extra. National and international viewers can access the game via NBA League Pass, Fubo, and YouTube TV.
According to betting lines, the Lakers are favored by 4.5 to 6 points at home, with the total points over/under set at 240.5. Given the Lakers' superior record, home-court advantage, and fewer rotation uncertainties, they are predicted to edge out another victory. A final score in the range of 130-123 for the Los Angeles Lakers aligns with the current projections. Key player props to watch include Dončić's scoring output and Morant's assist tally if his minutes are limited.
