This article was originally published on www.si.com/nba/lakers/onsi as Lakers vs Grizzlies Expert Predictions Ahead of NBA Cup Game. The Los Angeles Lakers, who won the inaugural NBA Cup in 2023, will now face off against the Memphis Grizzlies in its first Emirates NBA Cup game of the new season.

Lakers blow a 20-point lead before Austin Reaves hits the game-winner in victory over the Minnesota Timberwolves.

Memphis has suspended two-time All-Star guard Ja Morant for its game Sunday at the Toronto Raptors, with the Grizzlies citing what they described as conduct detrimental to the team. Morant scored only eight points in Memphis’ 117-112 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers on Friday night.

Ja Morant was suspended one game for conduct detrimental to the team following Memphis’ game against the Lakers on Friday. The Memphis Grizzlies have suspended star point guard Ja Morant for one game for conduct detrimental to the team, per a statement released by the team on Saturday afternoon.

It wasn't just that Morant had a rough shooting night, it was the lack of effort from a player known for bringing energy to the floor that was most concerning for Grizzlies fans. It was noticeable enough that Blake Griffin called it out on the Amazon postgame show.

Los Angeles Lakers star Austin Reaves has been a key part of why the team has three wins in its first five game this season. He showed up again on Wednesday night.