Grizzlies vs Lakers: Ja Morant’s Return and Western Conference Playoff Implications for January 2, 2026
The stage is set for a high-stakes Western Conference showdown as the Memphis Grizzlies visit the Los Angeles Lakers tonight. With both teams hovering around the .500 mark in their last ten games, this matchup is more than just another regular-season contest—it’s a critical pivot point in the tight 2025-26 playoff race. All eyes will be on Memphis’s electrifying guard, Ja Morant, who is coming off a monstrous 40-point performance, looking to avenge a narrow overtime loss and propel his team up the standings.
For the Lakers, the dynamic duo of Luka Doncic and LeBron James aims to protect home court and solidify their position in the top six. The recent history between these teams has been a series of offensive fireworks and close finishes, promising another thrilling chapter tonight at Crypto.com Arena.
Recent Head-to-Head Results and Key Performances
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The Lakers and Grizzlies have developed a compelling rivalry in recent seasons, marked by high scores and standout individual efforts. Their last meeting in March 2025 was a classic, with Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic combining for 60 points to secure a 134-127 victory for Los Angeles, spoiling the debut of Memphis’s interim coach.
Notable Recent Matchups
| Date | Result | Key Performers & Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mar 29, 2025 | Lakers 134 – Grizzlies 127 | Austin Reaves (31 PTS, 8 AST), Luka Doncic (29 PTS, 9 AST). Lakers squandered a 20-pt lead but held on. |
| Oct 31, 2025 | Lakers 117 – Grizzlies 112 | Luka Doncic (44 PTS, 12 REB, 6 AST) led the Lakers in an NBA Cup opener. Ja Morant returned from injury for Memphis. |
Team Form and Statistical Breakdown
As we approach the midpoint of the season, both teams have shown flashes of brilliance mixed with inconsistency. The data from their last ten games reveals two teams fighting to find a dominant rhythm.
| Stat Category | Los Angeles Lakers (Last 10 Games) | Memphis Grizzlies (Last 10 Games) |
|---|---|---|
| Record | 4-6 | 5-5 |
| Points Per Game | 111.8 | 121.7 |
| Field Goal % | 47.2% | 47.6% |
| Rebounds Per Game | 41.2 | 45.7 |
| Assists Per Game | 22.9 | 29.7 |
The Grizzlies have been the more potent offensive force lately, averaging nearly ten points more per game than the Lakers. However, Los Angeles’s defence, which allows 117.3 points per game on the season, will be tested by a Memphis team averaging 115.9. The key battle may be in the paint, where the Lakers score 51.2 points per game, led by Deandre Ayton.
Western Conference Playoff Picture
Every game carries immense weight in the loaded Western Conference. Current standings show a fierce battle for positioning, with both the Lakers and Grizzlies in the thick of the chase for home-court advantage and a guaranteed playoff spot.
“The Western Conference playoff tiebreakers could come down to the smallest margins. A head-to-head win in January might be the difference between the 6th seed and the play-in tournament come April,” notes an analysis of the tight standings.
With several teams separated by just a handful of games, a victory tonight provides crucial momentum and a direct tiebreaker advantage.
Injury Report and Key Players to Watch
The availability of star players will significantly impact tonight’s contest. As of the latest reports leading into the game:
- Ja Morant (MEM): Officially healthy and ready to play. He is averaging a staggering 40 points and two steals over his last ten games, coming off a 40-point outing against Philadelphia.
- Luka Doncic (LAL): The Lakers’ engine, averaging 33.5 points per game on the season. His playmaking and scoring will be central to LA’s success.
- LeBron James (LAL): Continues to be a force, contributing 25 points in the last meeting with Memphis.
While the main stars are expected to suit up, always check official team channels for last-minute updates to the injury report.
What to Expect in Tonight’s Game
Expect a fast-paced, high-scoring affair. The Grizzlies, fueled by Morant’s return to elite form, will push the tempo and look to exploit their recent offensive efficiency. The Lakers will counter with the half-court brilliance of Doncic and the veteran savvy of James, aiming to control the game’s rhythm and leverage their inside scoring.
The matchup between Morant and the Lakers’ perimeter defence, potentially featuring Austin Reaves and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, will be a defining subplot. Can Memphis’s improved assist numbers (29.7 per game last 10) break down the Lakers’ defence, or will Los Angeles’s experience in close games prove decisive down the stretch?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Ja Morant playing against the Lakers on January 2, 2026?
Yes, according to the latest injury reports, Ja Morant is officially healthy and expected to play for the Memphis Grizzlies against the Los Angeles Lakers. He is coming off a 40-point performance and has been a top performer over the last ten games.
What time is the Grizzlies vs. Lakers game tonight?
While the specific time for the January 2, 2026, game is not listed in the provided data, NBA games between these teams are typically scheduled in the evening. Fans should check local sports listings or the NBA’s official schedule for the exact tip-off time, which is often 7:30 p.m. or 10:30 p.m. Eastern Time.
What is the recent head-to-head record between the Lakers and Grizzlies?
Based on recent meetings, the Lakers have had the edge. They won the last two known matchups: 134-127 on March 29, 2025, and 117-112 on October 31, 2025. Both games were high-scoring and competitive.
How are the Lakers and Grizzlies performing in the Western Conference standings?
Both teams are firmly in the Western Conference playoff mix. The Lakers were noted as sixth in the West recently, while the Grizzlies are also fighting for position. The conference is extremely tight, making this a crucial game for seeding and potential tiebreaker scenarios.