Lakers injury news: Ayton, Smart

Mack Baltes

•
Lakers injury updates: Deandre Ayton, Marcus Smart image

TL;DR

  • Los Angeles Lakers hold a 13-4 record, tied for second in Western Conference.
  • Lakers play Dallas Mavericks in NBA Cup Group Play, with Luka Doncic facing former team.
  • Anthony Davis cleared to play; Mavericks missing Dereck Lively II, Dante Exum, Kyrie Irving.
  • Deandre Ayton probable; Marcus Smart questionable due to back spasms for Lakers.

The Los Angeles Lakers head into Friday night boasting a remarkable 13-4 win-loss tally, securing them a share of second position in the Western Conference rankings. This evening, in their concluding match of NBA Cup Group Play, they will compete against the Dallas Mavericks, with Both Luka Doncic and Anthony Davis slated to face their previous squads.

The Lakers currently hold a perfect 3-0 record in Group Play and are expected to move on to the tournament's subsequent stage irrespective of tonight's result. Securing a victory would guarantee them the top spot in Group B, whereas only a significant defeat coupled with a substantial Grizzlies/Clippers victory would eliminate them from contention.

Even though Deandre Ayton underwent an MRI on his knee earlier this week, he's now considered upgraded to probable for the upcoming game. Marcus Smart, a past recipient of the Defensive Player of the Year award, is listed as questionable for the contest because of back spasms. Aside from these players, the Lakers have no other injury concerns.

Conversely, former Laker Anthony Davis has been cleared to play. Davis has participated in just five contests this year and hasn't appeared for The Mavericks since October. Dallas is also missing Dereck Lively II, Dante Exum, and Kyrie Irving, who hasn't played yet this season because of an ACL injury.

Following tonight's contest with The Mavericks, the Lakers will proceed with their four-game home stand, facing the Pelicans and the Suns prior to embarking on a three-game journey away from home.

More NBA news:

Contributing Writer