The Memphis Grizzlies (15-18) head to Los Angeles to take on the Lakers (20-11) in a Western Conference clash that could highlight Memphis’ resilience against a Lakers team aiming to snap a recent skid.
With both squads dealing with injuries, the Grizzlies’ young core may exploit the Lakers’ absences, but Los Angeles’ home dominance and veteran leadership could prevail in what promises to be a competitive affair.
Venue Location
The game will be played at Crypto.com Arena in Los Angeles, California. This 19,000-capacity venue, home to the Lakers since 1999, is renowned for its star-studded crowds and high-energy atmosphere, though recent attendance has been affected by the team’s inconsistent form.
Tip-off is set for 10:30 PM ET (7:30 PM PT). The matchup will be broadcast on FanDuel Sports Network and other regional networks, with streaming available via NBA League Pass.
Injury Report
Injuries are impacting both teams, with the Lakers particularly thin in the frontcourt and backcourt, while the Grizzlies miss key depth pieces.
Memphis Grizzlies: Zach Edey is out (ankle). Scotty Pippen Jr. is out (toe). Vince Williams Jr. is out (knee). Jock Landale is out (calf). John Konchar is out (thumb). Kentavious Caldwell-Pope is questionable (illness). These absences weaken Memphis’ bench and rim protection, likely forcing starters like Santi Aldama to log heavy minutes.
Los Angeles Lakers: Austin Reaves is out (calf). Rui Hachimura is out (calf). Gabe Vincent is out (undisclosed). Adou Thiero is out (knee MCL sprain, at least four weeks). Jarred Vanderbilt is questionable (right leg soreness). The Lakers’ depth is tested, potentially relying on Max Christie and rookies for rotation minutes.
Player Matchups
Absences shift lineups, but core battles could decide the game. Expect the Grizzlies’ athleticism to challenge the Lakers’ experience.
Ja Morant (MEM) vs. D’Angelo Russell (LAL): Morant’s explosiveness (25+ PPG, 7+ APG) faces Russell’s playmaking (18 PPG). Without Reaves, Russell may struggle to contain Morant’s drives.
Desmond Bane (MEM) vs. Dalton Knecht (LAL, filling in): Bane’s scoring (20 PPG, 40% from three) meets Knecht’s emerging defense. This guard matchup could influence perimeter shooting.
Marcus Smart (MEM) vs. LeBron James (LAL): Smart’s tenacity tests James’ all-around dominance (24 PPG, 8 RPG, 8 APG). James might exploit switches for post-ups.
Jaren Jackson Jr. (MEM) vs. Anthony Davis (LAL): Jackson’s shot-blocking (top-5 in blocks) clashes with Davis’ scoring (28 PPG, 12 RPG). Without Vanderbilt or Hachimura, Davis could own the paint.
The Lakers hold frontcourt edges, but Memphis’ guards may create chaos in transition.
Recent Team Forms
The Grizzlies have shown improvement, going 7-3 in their last 10 games with an average of 118 PPG scored and strong rebounding (46.2 per game). Key wins include upsets over contenders, driven by efficient shooting and forcing turnovers, though losses highlight perimeter defense issues.
The Lakers are 4-6 in their last 10, averaging 111.8 PPG while allowing 121.4, reflecting a skid with injuries hampering consistency. They’ve struggled on the road but remain strong at home, with LeBron James and Anthony Davis carrying the load in wins.
| Team | Last 10 Games | Win Streak | PPG Scored | PPG Allowed | Key Trend |
| Grizzlies | 7-3 | W2 | 118.0 | 114.5 | 4-1 in last 5 road games landofbasketball.com |
| Lakers | 4-6 | L3 | 111.8 | 121.4 | 3-2 in last 5 home games statmuse.com |
Series History
The Lakers lead the all-time series 70-41 in 111 regular-season games.
In recent years, Los Angeles holds a slight edge, winning 43 of 83 total meetings.
This season, the Lakers are 1-0 against Memphis after a 117-112 win on October 31, 2025.
The Lakers are 6-4 in their last 10 home games vs. the Grizzlies. The teams meet again on January 4 in Los Angeles.
Betting Trends
Grizzlies Trends: Memphis is 2-4 ATS in its last 6 games and 2-4 SU overall recently. The over has hit in 4 of their last 6, but they’re 4-6 ATS on the road.
Lakers Trends: Los Angeles is 1-4 ATS in its last 5 but 4-1 SU at home recently. The under has hit in 5 of their last 10 games.
Series Trends: In the last 10 meetings, the home team is 7-3 ATS, with the over hitting 6 times (average 220 points).
Game Odds
Memphis Grizzlies 240.5
Los Angeles Lakers – 3.5
Odds Courtesy of Sports Odds Direct as of Thursday, January 1, 2026
