Grizzlies vs Lakers: Key Matchup in Western Conference as Injuries Impact Lineups

The Memphis Grizzlies and the Los Angeles Lakers are set to clash in a crucial Western Conference matchup on Wednesday, November 13, at Crypto.com Arena. This game marks the second encounter between the two teams in less than a week, following the Grizzlies’ 131-114 win in Memphis last week.

The Grizzlies, currently 7-4 and on a three-game winning streak, will be without key players Ja Morant and Desmond Bane due to injuries. Morant is sidelined with a right hip subluxation and pelvic muscle strains, while Bane is out with a right oblique strain. However, the Grizzlies received positive news with the return of former Defensive Player of the Year Marcus Smart, who has been out with an ankle sprain. Smart’s defensive prowess is expected to provide significant support despite his recent poor shooting form.

The Lakers, with a 6-4 record and a perfect 5-0 home record, are looking to continue their strong performance at Crypto.com Arena. LeBron James remains a dominant force, averaging 23.2 points, 8.9 assists, and 7.7 rebounds per game. Austin Reaves has also been impressive, averaging 18.7 points, 5.2 assists, and 4.5 rebounds per game. The Lakers are favored by 6.5 points, with the over/under set at 230.5 points.

The Lakers’ home court advantage and current health status give them an edge, as they have won each of their last six home games and covered the spread in each of those games. In contrast, the Grizzlies have struggled on the road against Western Conference opponents with a winning record, losing 13 of their last 14 such games.

The game is expected to be high-scoring, with nine of the Grizzlies’ last 10 games at Crypto.com Arena following a road win going over the total points line. Additionally, each of the last five night games between the Grizzlies and Lakers has gone over the total points line.