Star guard Luka Doncic is expected to be in the lineup when the Los Angeles Lakers host the Memphis Grizzlies on Saturday, January 4, 2026. The Slovenian sensation is not listed on the team's official injury report, clearing him to play in the second game of a back-to-back set against the same opponent.
Official Status vs External Reports
The Lakers' official injury report provides the clearest evidence of Doncic's availability. He is listed as fully available alongside veteran leader LeBron James. This official stance directly contradicts reports from outside the team which had claimed Doncic was managing pain in both legs and his left elbow, receiving constant treatment but choosing to play through discomfort due to several teammate absences.
Los Angeles Lakers beat writer Dan Woike has disputed these claims, calling them inaccurate based on his sources within the organisation. The team has not confirmed any specific physical limitations for their leading scorer.
Carrying the Load for a Shorthanded Squad
Doncic's presence is crucial for a Lakers team navigating a season of significant roster instability. In his first full season with the franchise, he is leading the entire NBA with an average of 33.6 points per game. His consistency has been the anchor for a team that has already used 17 different starting lineups while compiling a 21-11 record.
The timing of this game is notable. Just two nights ago, on January 2, Doncic powered the Lakers to a 128-121 victory over these same Grizzlies, dropping 34 points. He has missed only five games all season: three due to leg contusions and two for family reasons.
However, the Lakers remain short-handed. Key players are sidelined, including:
- Austin Reaves (calf injury, out until late January)
- Rui Hachimura (calf issue)
- Gabe Vincent (back problem)
- Adou Thiero (MCL injury)
What to Watch in the Memphis Rematch
Some observers have pointed to a shift in Doncic's recent shot selection as possible, though unconfirmed, evidence of him managing something physically. Over his last three contests, he has averaged 10.7 three-point attempts per game, relying more on jump shots than aggressive drives to the basket. The suggestion is he may be avoiding contact, but his efficiency against Memphis two days ago showed no clear limitations.
Tonight, all eyes will be on his early movement and aggression. If he looks comfortable, the narrative will quickly shift from injury speculation to how much pressure he can apply to a Memphis Grizzlies (15-19) defense that allowed 128 points in the previous meeting. The Grizzlies have their own injury concerns, with Jaren Jackson Jr. and Vince Williams Jr. listed as questionable.
Currently sitting third on the league's MVP ladder, Doncic's performance continues to be the central storyline for the Lakers' season. His expected participation tonight is a major boost as they look to solidify their position in the competitive Western Conference.
