LA Lakers are preparing for their second meeting of the season against the Utah Jazz with several key rotation players listed on the injury report, creating notable uncertainty around their lineup ahead of tip-off. With the game scheduled at the Delta Center, availability decisions could significantly shape how Lakers approach both ends of the floor.
Lakers dealing with key absences
Los Angeles have already confirmed multiple absences that will impact their structure. Center Deandre Ayton has been ruled out with an elbow injury, removing a crucial interior presence from the lineup. Ayton’s absence once again forces Lakers to adjust their frontcourt rotation, particularly on defense and on the glass.
Austin Reaves will also miss the contest due to a calf issue. Reaves has been a consistent offensive contributor and secondary playmaker this season, and his absence creates a void in shot creation and perimeter scoring. Bronny James remains unavailable as he continues his G League assignment, leaving LA Lakers short on guard depth for this matchup.
Question marks around bench depth
Lakers are also monitoring the statuses of two rotation players who are listed as questionable. Maxi Kleber is dealing with a back issue, while Gabe Vincent is also questionable due to a back injury. Their availability could play a major role in determining how deep Los Angeles can go with its bench rotation.
Kleber’s potential absence would further thin LA Lakers’ frontcourt depth, particularly with Ayton already ruled out. Vincent’s status is equally important, as Lakers may need additional ball-handling and perimeter defense with Reaves sidelined. Final decisions on both players are expected closer to game time.
Expected lineup adjustments
With Ayton out, Jaxson Hayes is expected to step in as the starting center, as he has done in previous games when Ayton was unavailable. Hayes’ athleticism provides energy around the rim, but Lakers will need him to stay out of foul trouble against Utah’s physical frontcourt.
In the backcourt, Marcus Smart is the leading candidate to replace Reaves in the starting lineup, following a similar adjustment made in Los Angeles’ recent outing against the Phoenix Suns. Smart’s defensive presence could help stabilize the perimeter, though Lakers may need others to step up offensively.
Game outlook against Utah
The Jazz enter the matchup aiming to build momentum and potentially secure a rare three-game winning streak. For LA Lakers, navigating their injury concerns while maintaining competitiveness will be the primary challenge. With multiple lineup questions still unresolved, Los Angeles’ final rotation could come down to last-minute evaluations.
Tip-off is set for 7 p.m. MT in Salt Lake City, where Lakers will look to overcome their injury hurdles and secure a road win.