Anthony

Davis

The Lakers will be down two starters in the frontcourt in this game, which will open up a lot of minutes. Jaxson Hayes should be locked in as a starter, with Christian Koloko also filling out some minutes. The other spot will likely be filled by one of Cam Reddish, Max Christie or Dalton Knecht, with LeBron James shifting over to power forward. Reddish played the largest role in their last game and should provide some steals in extended minutes.

Davis suffered a left heel contusion late in Monday’s loss to the Pistons. He’s been off to a great start this season and the heel is his first injury concern of the year. If Davis can’t go on Wednesday, Jaxon Hayes figures to start for the Lakers.

Davis was injured late in Monday’s loss to the Pistons but did not exit until the outcome was no longer in doubt. Injuries haven’t been an issue for AD thus far, so hopefully, he can play against Memphis. If Davis sits, Jaxson Hayes would be the next man up.

Davis continues to carry the Lakers and fantasy teams. He scored 37 points on 23 shots in 39 minutes. Davis hit 11-of-14 free throws. Davis had three turnovers and missed all four of his 3-point attempts, but he’s off to a tremendous start to the season. Seemingly the only thing that can get in his way at this point is his own health. The Lakers play the Grizzlies on Wednesday as well as weekend matchups with the 76ers and Raptors.

Both guys were initially listed as probable for this game, so their official availability doesn’t come as a surprise. They should both continue to play their typical roles, where Davis has been able to be one of the best players in fantasy basketball early on.

Davis and Reaves are probable on the initial injury report, suggesting they’ll be available in Detroit. Reaves sprained his ankle during Friday’s win over the Raptors but participated in Sunday’s practice.

Entertaining MVP conversations this early in the season is a fool’s errand, but Davis has been elite through the Lakers’ first six games. Based on the Yahoo ADP, he was expected to be a top 5 player, and that’s how things have worked out so far. New coach JJ Redick has made it a point of emphasis to run the offense through Davis, and he’s been up to the task.

Davis and Russell are on the injury report, but both are expected to be available Friday night. While the latter has been a solid fantasy option thus far, Davis has been one of the most productive players in the NBA.

Davis had his share of woes in the 24-point loss in Cleveland. He was 4-of-8 from the free throw line, had four turnovers and was -18 in 31 minutes. Still, it’s been a great start to the season for Davis under new Lakers head coach JJ Redick. The Lakers have Thursday off before playing again on Friday against the Raptors in Toronto.

Koloko hasn’t played since April of 2023 due to a blood clot issue, but the seven-footer is on track to get back on the court this season. Once he ramps back up to game shape, he could offer backup depth in the frontcourt behind Anthony Davis.