Is Luka Doncic playing tonight vs the Memphis Grizzlies? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star's injury report (January 4, 2026)

Luka Doncic is expected to play tonight when the Los Angeles Lakers face the Memphis Grizzlies on January 4, 2026. He is not listed on the Lakers’ injury report and is available for the second game of a back-to-back against Memphis.The timing matters. Doncic just scored 34 points in a 128-121 win over the Grizzlies two days ago and continues to carry a heavy workload in his first full season with Los Angeles. He leads the league at 33.6 points per game and has been central to keeping the Lakers steady through a season filled with lineup changes.

Luka Doncic's injury situation vs the Memphis Grizzlies (January 4, 2026)

Reports outside the team have claimed Luka Doncic is dealing with pain in both legs and an issue with his left elbow.

According to those claims, he has been receiving constant treatment but has chosen to play through it because of how many teammates are out.

Some observers have pointed to his recent shot selection as possible evidence. Over his last three games, Doncic has averaged 10.7 three-point attempts, relying more on jump shots than drives. The suggestion is that he may be limiting contact, though nothing has been confirmed by the team.

Los Angeles Lakers’ stance and official availability

Those reports have been disputed. Los Angeles Lakers beat writer Dan Woike has said the claims are inaccurate based on his sources. The clearest indicator remains the official injury report, which does not list Doncic at all.He is available alongside LeBron James. The Los Angeles Lakers are still short-handed elsewhere. Austin Reaves is out with a calf injury until late January. Rui Hachimura is sidelined with a calf issue, Gabe Vincent is dealing with a back problem, and Adou Thiero remains out with an MCL injury.

Game context against Memphis Grizzlies

Los Angeles Lakers enter the night at 21-11 and has already used 17 different starting lineups this season. Doncic’s consistency has helped keep the team afloat, and he currently sits third on the league’s MVP ladder.Memphis is 15-19 and also dealing with injuries. Jaren Jackson Jr. and Vince Williams Jr. are among those listed as questionable. The Grizzlies are looking to respond after giving up 128 points in the previous meeting, where Doncic repeatedly created space against defenders, including Ja Morant.

What to watch tonight

Luka Doncic has missed only five games all season, three due to leg contusions and two for family reasons. His last outing against Memphis showed no clear limitations, as he scored 34 points on solid efficiency.Also read: Is LeBron James playing tonight vs the Sacramento Kings? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star's injury report (January 4, 2026)With his scoring line set high again, the expectation is that he will play his usual role. If he looks comfortable early, the focus will shift away from injury talk and back to how much pressure he can put on a Memphis defense looking for answers.