Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Lakers Preseason Game Injury Report (October 14, 2025): Who's In, Who's Out, and More

The Phoenix Suns and Los Angeles Lakers are set to square off in a highly anticipated preseason clash on October 14, 2025. However, both teams enter the matchup with several key players sidelined due to injuries, influencing rotations and preseason strategies.

Here’s an updated look at the complete injury outlook for both squads ahead of tip-off.

Los Angeles Lakers Injury Report vs Phoenix Suns (October 14, 2025)

The Los Angeles Lakers continue to deal with multiple injury setbacks, headlined by LeBron James’ ongoing recovery from sciatica. The 40-year-old veteran remains out and is not expected to return until the end of October, which means he’ll also miss the regular season opener. The team is taking a cautious, long-term approach with his health to ensure he’s fully fit for the demanding season ahead.Forward Maxi Kleber is also on the injury list with a quadriceps issue. While he has shown progress in his recovery, his participation for this game remains uncertain. Rookie guard Adou Thiero is dealing with a knee problem and will also be unavailable.

Adding to the team’s woes, two-way guard Chris Manon suffered a Grade 2 ankle sprain on October 13, which will keep him sidelined for the rest of the preseason. Despite these challenges, the Los Angeles Lakers have some positive developments as well.

Marcus Smart, who missed previous games due to Achilles tendinopathy, has recovered and is expected to return to the lineup, bringing a much-needed defensive edge and leadership.Perhaps the biggest headline for the Lakers is the anticipated preseason debut of Luka Doncic. After being carefully managed following EuroBasket 2025, the new franchise cornerstone is set to take the court for the first time in purple and gold.

His debut marks the beginning of a new era for Los Angeles, and his presence will be a major factor in shaping the team’s chemistry heading into the regular season.

Los Angeles Lakers Probable Injury List

• LeBron James (Sciatica, out until at least Oct 31) • Maxi Kleber (Quadriceps, questionable) • Adou Thiero (Knee, questionable) • Chris Manon (Ankle sprain, out rest of preseason) • Marcus Smart (Achilles, expected to play) • Luka Doncic (Managed, expected to play)

Phoenix Suns Injury Report vs Los Angeles Lakers (October 14, 2025)

The Phoenix Suns are also managing their share of injury setbacks.

Shooting guard Jalen Green will miss the game as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury sustained earlier in the preseason. The plan is for Green to be fully ready for the regular season opener against the Sacramento Kings on October 22.Meanwhile, center Mark Williams is another concern for Phoenix. His status remains uncertain heading into this matchup, as the team evaluates his progress and recovery timeline.The Phoenix Suns are using this preseason period to build chemistry and assess depth following a dramatic offseason that saw major roster changes, including the trade of superstar Kevin Durant. With Green out and Williams’ status unclear, Phoenix will rely heavily on its bench rotation to fill key roles and test new combinations on the floor.

Suns Probable Injury List

• Jalen Green (Hamstring, out for this game) • Mark Williams (Injury status uncertain)For the Los Angeles Lakers, this matchup is less about results and more about integration.

With LeBron James out, all eyes will be on Luka Doncic as he takes the floor for the first time in Los Angeles colors. His debut represents a significant moment for fans eager to see how he pairs with the team’s restructured roster. The return of Marcus Smart adds an experienced voice to a squad blending youth, star power, and new chemistry.The Suns, on the other hand, continue to redefine their identity following Durant’s departure.

Their focus will be on fine-tuning their offensive system and finding consistency in their defensive setups, even without key players like Jalen Green. Head coach adjustments and lineup experiments will likely dominate the night as Phoenix evaluates its readiness for the season ahead.Both teams are clearly prioritizing health and long-term performance over short-term preseason wins. Expect the game to emphasize player development, tactical adjustments, and the integration of new talent rather than star-heavy minutes.Also read: Phoenix Suns vs Los Angeles Lakers Preseason Preview, Prediction, Odds, Best NBA Prop Bets, Betting Breakdown, and More (October 14, 2025)Fans can still expect an exciting contest, highlighted by Luka Doncic’s first appearance as a Laker and a Suns team eager to showcase its potential in a new era. Despite the injuries, this matchup serves as an intriguing preview of how both Western Conference contenders are shaping up ahead of the 2025–26 NBA season.