Are LeBron James, Luka Doncic, Marcus Smart and Maxi Kleber Playing Tonight? Lakers vs Spurs Injury Update

The Los Angeles Lakers and San Antonio Spurs meet on December 10, 2025, in a crucial NBA Cup quarterfinal matchup at Crypto.com Arena. The main keyword, Lakers vs Spurs Injury Update, is central to tonight’s storyline as both teams navigate returning players and one major star absence.

The Lakers enter the elimination game with nearly their full roster available, while the Spurs continue without their franchise centerpiece. Both teams confirmed their final injury statuses earlier today, shaping expectations for one of the night’s most important contests.

Latest Player Status for Lakers vs Spurs Injury Update

LeBron James and Luka Doncic are both cleared to play tonight. Neither player is listed on the Lakers’ official injury report. Their availability gives Los Angeles a significant advantage in a must-win matchup, as both stars have produced elite numbers this season. Trusted outlets such as Reuters and AP have consistently reported on their strong early-season performances.

The Lakers also receive a major boost with the return of Marcus Smart. The veteran guard missed six games with a back injury but practiced fully on December 9 and declared himself ready. His defensive presence and on-ball toughness are expected to elevate the Lakers’ perimeter matchups against San Antonio’s dynamic guards.

Maxi Kleber is the only Laker carrying a designation. He is officially listed as questionable due to a lumbar muscle strain. The team will reassess him during pregame warmups, but his involvement remains uncertain.

For the Spurs, the biggest development is the continued absence of Victor Wembanyama. The All-Star center is ruled out with a left calf strain and will miss his 12th straight game. He was posting 26.2 points, 12.9 rebounds, and 3.6 blocks per game before the injury. His absence significantly alters San Antonio’s interior defense and rebounding.

Jordan McLaughlin is also questionable with a hamstring strain. Spurs guards De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle, however, are both cleared to play and will lead the offense once again.

How Both Teams Adjust Without Key Pieces

The Spurs have adapted well during Wembanyama’s extended absence, going 8–3 in their last 11 games. Their guard-heavy offense has relied heavily on Fox and Castle, who have maintained strong efficiency and pace. San Antonio ranks among the league’s top scoring teams, averaging 119.6 points per game.

The Lakers, meanwhile, benefit from having their full star trio of LeBron, Doncic, and Smart. Luka Doncic remains an MVP candidate, averaging 35.0 points, 9.2 rebounds, and 9.1 assists. With Smart returning, defensive matchups should tighten, particularly against Fox and Castle, who initiate most of the Spurs’ plays.

The matchup likely favors Los Angeles due to star availability and home-court advantage. But the Spurs have demonstrated depth and resilience that could make this quarterfinal competitive through all four quarters.

The Lakers vs Spurs Injury Update positions Los Angeles as the healthier team entering the NBA Cup quarterfinal. With their stars available, the Lakers aim to capitalize on this advantage, while the Spurs look to continue their strong form despite missing Wembanyama.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: Is Victor Wembanyama playing tonight?

No. Wembanyama is out with a calf strain and will miss his 12th straight game.

Q2: Are LeBron James and Luka Doncic both active?

Yes. Both players are cleared and not listed on the injury report.

Q3: Is Marcus Smart returning from injury?

Yes. Smart missed six games but was a full participant in practice and is available.

Q4: What is Maxi Kleber’s injury status?

Kleber is questionable with a lumbar strain and will be evaluated pregame.

Q5: Who leads the Spurs’ offense without Wembanyama?

De’Aaron Fox and Stephon Castle lead the scoring and playmaking roles.