As the Los Angeles Lakers prepare for their NBA Cup showdown against the New Orleans Pelicans, the team enters Friday night’s contest dealing with significant absences. With both squads pushing through a demanding early-season schedule, the latest injury updates carry major implications for how the matchup may unfold at the Smoothie King Center.
Lakers enter Pelicans matchup undermanned
The Lakers have confirmed three key absences ahead of the November 14 clash. LeBron James remains sidelined with right sciatica, ruling him out as the team continues to adjust without his veteran presence and leadership.
Joining him on the injury list is Gabe Vincent, who remains unavailable due to a left ankle sprain. Additionally, Adou Thiero continues recovering from left knee surgery and will not be active for the contest.
These absences create major rotational challenges for Los Angeles, especially with James out of the lineup. Without his scoring, playmaking, and defensive versatility, the Lakers will once again lean heavily on the rest of their starting unit to set the tone.
Projected lineup
In their previous outing—a tough defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder on November 12—the Lakers rolled out a lineup consisting of Marcus Smart, Rui Hachimura, Deandre Ayton, Austin Reaves, and Luka Doncic. With no changes in availability heading into Friday’s game, Los Angeles is expected to rely on a similar combination of veteran talent and offensive firepower.
The burden will fall particularly on Doncic and Ayton, who continue to anchor the team’s scoring and interior presence. Reaves and Hachimura are also expected to see increased responsibilities on both ends of the court as the Lakers attempt to keep pace against a Pelicans team capable of pushing the tempo.
Pelicans vs. Lakers: Broadcast Details & Venue Information
The Pelicans host the Lakers at the Smoothie King Center in New Orleans, with tip-off scheduled for 7:00 p.m. CT. Fans across regions will have multiple ways to tune in, ensuring wide coverage of the high-stakes NBA Cup meeting.
Where to watch and listen
Pelicans TV: Gulf Coast Sports & Entertainment Network
Pelicans Live Stream: Pelicans+, NBA League Pass
Pelicans Radio: WWL 870 AM
Lakers TV: Spectrum SportsNet
Lakers Radio: ESPN LA 710 / 1330 KWKW