Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies Picks and Predictions January 2nd 2026

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Memphis Grizzlies vs Los Angeles Lakers Betting Preview

Los Angeles returns home trying to stop a slide during a rare back-to-back set against Memphis. The Lakers have dropped four of five and struggled to score efficiently, averaging fewer than 100 points in their last four losses. Turnovers and lineup instability have defined the stretch, especially with Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura sidelined.

Memphis arrives off a tough overtime loss but showed signs of offensive life with Ja Morant ramping up minutes. The Grizzlies are easing key players back into form and continue to evaluate young contributors. This first meeting sets the tone for the mini-series, with both teams needing defensive improvement.

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Line Movement and Odds

Los Angeles opened -5.5 and has slid to -4 as injury uncertainty and recent form weighed on the market. Memphis sits at +4, attracting interest from bettors fading the Lakers’ turnover issues.

The total opened at 228.5 and has ticked down to 226. Bettors are reacting to Los Angeles’ recent scoring dip and Memphis’ slower pace when Morant is managed. Moneyline pricing still favors the Lakers at home.

Track live movement on the NBA odds board.

Matchup Breakdown

Los Angeles must value possessions. Luka Doncic continues to produce, but turnovers have erased advantages late. Without Reaves and Hachimura, the Lakers lack secondary creation and spacing, making ball security critical.

Memphis relies on Morant’s downhill pressure and athleticism. When he pushes tempo, the Grizzlies generate efficient looks and force defensive rotations. Rookie Cedric Coward’s emergence adds rebounding and length, helping Memphis stay competitive even when shots do not fall.

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Injuries and Conditions

Los Angeles Lakers

  • Austin Reaves, calf, out
  • Rui Hachimura, calf, out
  • Luka Doncic, shoulder, probable

See full Los Angeles Lakers injury report.

Memphis Grizzlies

  • Ja Morant, calf management, probable
  • Cedric Coward, heel, probable

See full Memphis Grizzlies injury report.

This game is indoors. No weather impact.

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Best Bets and Prediction

Los Angeles needs a response, but its recent execution makes margin tough to trust. Memphis has shown resilience and should benefit from Morant’s increased workload.

Projected Score: Lakers 112, Grizzlies 109
Best Bet: Grizzlies +4
Secondary Lean: Under 226

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