Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Lakers Picks and Predictions for Friday, January 2, 2026
The Memphis Grizzlies visit the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night. Memphis is 15-18 overall and 8-9 on the road, coming off a 139-136 overtime home loss to Philadelphia. Los Angeles is 20-11 overall and 8-6 at home, coming off a 128-106 home loss to Detroit. Cash a winning ticket with our free NBA picks.
Grizzlies vs Lakers Game Information
- Date: Friday, January 2
- Time: 10:30 PM ET
- Location: crypto.com Arena, Los Angeles, CA
- TV: Spectrum Sports Net
Memphis Grizzlies Outlook
Memphis relies on Jaren Jackson Jr. to carry the scoring load, as he is averaging 18.5 points per game while shooting 47.6% from the field. Ja Morant is the playmaker of the offense, averaging 7.6 assists per game, giving the Grizzlies pace and pressure when he attacks the lane. Santi Aldama provides steady rebounding at 6.7 per game and helps Memphis stay competitive on the glass despite injuries in the frontcourt.
Defensively, the Grizzlies struggle to slow teams consistently and allow too many points during extended runs. Turnovers have also been costly, especially in road games where mistakes quickly turn into transition baskets. Injuries continue to impact the roster, with Brandon Clarke, John Konchar, and Zach Edey out, while Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Vince Williams Jr. are listed as game-time decisions.
Key Stats Per Game
- Points: 115.9
- Points Allowed: 116.5
- Rebounds: 46.2
- Assists: 29.0
- Steals: 7.9
- Blocks: 5.1
- Turnovers: 14.8
Los Angeles Lakers Outlook
Los Angeles is powered by Luka Doncic, who leads the team with an average of 33.5 points per game and controls the offense with a team-best 8.7 assists per game. Doncic’s ability to score from anywhere on the floor creates constant pressure on defenses. Deandre Ayton anchors the paint, averaging 8.6 rebounds per game, while LeBron James continues to provide scoring and playmaking despite only playing a limited number of games.
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On the defensive end, the Lakers have had issues containing opposing guards and allowing points in bunches, but rebounding and shot-making at home have kept them competitive. Injuries remain a concern, with Austin Reaves, Rui Hachimura, and Adou Thiero out, while Gabe Vincent is listed as questionable.
Key Stats Per Game
- Points: 116.8
- Points Allowed: 117.2
- Rebounds: 40.9
- Assists: 24.8
- Steals: 8.3
- Blocks: 4.0
- Turnovers: 14.8
Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Lakers Prediction
Los Angeles controls this matchup behind Doncic’s scoring and playmaking and strong play late in the game. Memphis can score, but it gives up too many points and struggles with turnovers on the road. Final Score Prediction: Los Angeles Lakers win and cover ATS, 121-112. The best sportsbooks are the best way to go when you are betting on the Lakers. Make sure you know about how the fans are looking on prediction markets for the Grizzlies with the Onyx Odds promo code. Getting the most out of your bets on Lakers vs Grizzlies can be done by using the Fanatics Sportsbook promo code.
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