Los Angeles Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans regular season game: Full injury report, who;s out, and more (November 14, 2025)

The Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans enter their November 14, 2025 regular-season matchup with significant roster complications on both sides. What was initially projected to be a star-powered showdown has quickly transformed into a depth-driven contest shaped by injury-induced adjustments and strategic reshuffling.

With several key names unavailable or uncertain, both teams are navigating a delicate balance between maintaining competitiveness and protecting their long-term health goals.The stakes remain high regardless of the setbacks. The Lakers are aiming to stabilize their early-season rhythm without multiple veteran leaders, while the Pelicans look to stay afloat in the standings despite long-term absences to core players.

These circumstances position the clash at Smoothie King Center as a test of grit, adaptability, and coaching flexibility.

Los Angeles Lakers Injury Report vs New Orleans Pelicans (November 14, 2025)

Los Angeles Lakers enters the matchup with a lengthy list of unavailable contributors. LeBron James is ruled out due to right sciatica, a major loss given his playmaking, leadership, and ability to elevate the team in high-pressure stretches. Young wing Adou Thiero is listed as questionable with a left knee injury that may require surgery, leaving his status uncertain.

The guard rotation takes a further hit as Gabe Vincent remains sidelined with a left ankle sprain.

Taurean Prince continues to recover from a neck herniated disc, reducing forward depth and versatility. Kevin Porter Jr. is unavailable as he recovers from right knee meniscus surgery, and Jordan Poole is out with a left quad strain, removing a major scoring option. With so many players missing, the Lakers are leaning heavily on Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura to carry offensive and defensive responsibility, though the absence of James and Poole will be significant.

New Orleans Pelicans Injury Report vs Los Angeles Lakers (November 14, 2025)

The New Orleans Pelicans are facing their own critical setbacks. Zion Williamson is still out with a left hamstring strain, though reports note progress in rehab and clearance for non-contact on-court work. Dejounte Murray remains sidelined with a right Achilles rupture, eliminating a major defensive presence and backcourt playmaker. Two-way guard Trey Alexander is out, and several developmental and G League players - along with Gabe Vincent following recent roster movements - remain unavailable.Day’Ron Sharpe is questionable with a left glute contusion, adding to frontcourt concerns. In response, New Orleans relies heavily on Luka Dončić’s elite scoring and facilitating, supported by Trey Murphy III, DeAndre Ayton, and Jake LaRavia, who have stepped up to maintain competitive balance despite the injuries.

What to Expect in the Los Angeles Lakers vs New Orleans Pelicans Matchup (November 14, 2025)

The extensive injury situations on both sides shift the emphasis toward depth production, defensive execution, and in-game adjustments. The Los Angeles Lakers must find ways to compensate for missing star power and perimeter scoring, while the New Orleans Pelicans aim to build around the reliable output of Dončić and supporting talent. Fans can expect a physical, tactical, and closely contested battle defined by resilience rather than marquee names.