John
The Los Angeles Lakers and Memphis Grizzlies will be facing off tonight in what could be a crucial game in terms of playoff standings. Both teams are tied with a 44-29 record entering this contest, so the winner will claim the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference for themselves.
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However, entering this game, both sides are dealing with some injuries. For the Lakers, the most notable name on the injury report is guard Austin Reaves.
Reaves suffered a minor injury in the last game for Los Angeles, and it has clearly impacted his potential availability. The guard was listed as questionable for the game and will play in this critical matchup.
Austin Reaves (ankle) available to play Saturday.
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) March 29, 2025
The guard has emerged as the true third option for Los Angeles this season, showing his worth completely. Reaves has played great all season long, and it’s given the Lakers a major boost offensively.
For the year, Reaves has averaged 19.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, 5.9 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Reaves has also shot 35.8 percent from beyond the 3-point line this year, giving Los Angeles a decent option from distance.
Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images
As for the Grizzlies, star guard Ja Morant has landed on the injury report, but he has seen his injury status upgraded. Morant has been out for multiple games, but could be making his return here against the Lakers.
Read more: Grizzlies Upgrade Ja Morant Injury Status Ahead of Lakers Game
Morant was listed as questionable for the game against Los Angeles and will indeed return to the court. This gives Memphis a massive boost and could be the difference in the outcome of this contest.
Ja Morant (hamstring) available to play Saturday.
— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) March 29, 2025
This game will be the first one for the Grizzlies since they let go of head coach Taylot Jenkins. Memphis made the shocking move on Friday, and it took everyone by surprise when it was announced.
Read more: Grizzlies GM Offers More Details Into Why Taylor Jenkins Was Fired
It remains to be seen how the Grizzlies will take this major change, especially this late into the year. But this team is extremely talented and will try to put their best foot forward the rest of the way.
More NBA news:
Grizzlies Star To Miss Remainder of NBA Season
Top 3 Head Coach Candidates After Grizzlies Shockingly Fired Taylor Jenkins
For more on the Lakers, Grizzlies, and the NBA at large, head on over to Newsweek Sports.
