The Los Angeles Lakers put their undefeated record on the line tonight against the Memphis Grizzlies, who are 2-1 for the first time since 2005-2006, when they made the playoffs with the help of one Pau Gasol. Tonight, Pau faces his brother Marc, who is day-to-day with a left ankle sprain but is expected to start. Here are the probable starters and injury reports for both teams:
Grizzlies
- Point Guard: Mike Conley (who just signed a five-year, $45 million contract extension that seems to be universally panned)
- Shooting Guard: O.J. Mayo
- Small Forward: Rudy Gay
- Power Forward: Darrell Arthur
- Center: Marc Gasol
Aside from Gasol, Zach Randolph is listed as a game-time decision with a lower back contusion, but is not expected to play.
Lakers
-
Point Guard: Derek Fisher
-
Shooting Guard: Kobe Bryant
-
Small Forward: Ron Artest
-
Power Forward: Lamar Odom
-
Center: Pau Gasol
Luke Walton might see his first minutes of the season tonight, but he is listed as doubtful with a right hamstring strain. Center Theo Ratliff is probable with a sore left knee.
The Lakers have beaten the Grizzlies in six of their last seven meetings. The Lakers won their first 10 games against the Grizzlies at Staples Center, but are just 5-5 in their last 10 meetings in Los Angeles. Under head coach Phil Jackson, the Lakers hold a 28-10 edge over the Grizzlies.
For more information, be sure to read the SB Nation blog Silver Screen and Roll.