Despite battling injuries, the Los Angeles Lakers still managed to secure back-to-back road wins last weekend, which was impressive for several reasons. The Lakers have quietly put together a solid 9-4 record nearly a month into the 2024-25 season, and they’ve now won five straight games. As the team heads back home, fans hope it would mean Rui Hachimura’s return. Unfortunately, that still seems uncertain for now.

JJ Redick delivered the news to the media during a courtside interview. The wingman sat out Monday’s practice and is now listed as questionable for Tuesday’s matchup with the Utah Jazz. Hachimura is at risk of missing his third consecutive game because of an ankle issue. Still, Redick remains optimistic about his return, later this week, if he’s unable to suit up on Tuesday. The Lakers will also face the Orlando Magic on Thursday and the Denver Nuggets on Saturday. They’re optimistic that Hachimura will be ready to play in at least one of those games.

Should the 6-foot-8 small forward remain sidelined, the Lakers will turn to Dalton Knecht and Max Christie, who have made a noticeable impact on both ends of the floor during his absence.

Meanwhile, Anthony Davis is still battling left plantar fasciitis but has shown no signs of being out for Tuesday’s NBA Cup game. He is probable on the injury list. Davis, meanwhile, is putting together a phenomenal season, averaging 31.1 points per game, ranking second in the league. He’s also pulling down 11.2 rebounds, adding 2.6 assists, and shooting 56% from the field. To top it off, Davis is contributing 1.3 steals and 2.0 blocks across 12 games.

With the Lakers already down to bare bones on players, having more bodies available is crucial for their success moving forward, no matter who they are.

A surprising name on the Lakers injury report

Jarred Vanderbilt and Christian Wood, both recovering from offseason surgeries, have yet to make their season debut. They are both out for the matchup against the Jazz. Meanwhile, backup center Jaxson Hayes has been sidelined for the past three games due to a sprained ankle. He’ll be out as well.

Jalen Hood-Schifino is still recovering from groin and hamstring injuries he sustained earlier this season. While he’s currently back with the NBA team, he won’t be available to play off the bench on Tuesday. It’s been a tough road for him to get back to full health.

And the surprise is Bronny James. James appears on the injury report for the first time this season. Although the Lakers could clear him for Tuesday’s game, he’s unlikely to play unless they lead by a large margin. The team lists him as doubtful. Recently recalled from the G League, James had a rough performance in his last game with the South Bay Lakers. During a 127-122 loss to the Stockton Kings, James managed only four points on 2-of-10 shooting in 26 minutes.

In the short term, the silver lining is that Utah is struggling this season. With a 3-10 record, they’re among the league’s worst teams. However, one of their rare victories came over the weekend, thanks to a costly defensive mistake by Luka Doncic against the Mavs.

But nothing is certain in the Western Conference. The Lakers will look to go 2-0 in the Emirates NBA Cup 2024 group play.