Los Angeles Lakers vs Portland Trail Blazers regular season game: Full injury report, expected lineup, and more (November 3, 2025)

The Los Angeles Lakers and Portland Trail Blazers clash on November 3, 2025, in a regular-season NBA matchup that carries immense excitement despite the absence of several marquee players. The game, set to be held at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon, is defined by adversity, with both teams entering short-handed yet determined to make a statement early in the 2025–26 campaign.

While the Los Angeles Lakers seek to extend their winning momentum, the Portland Trail Blazers aim to defend home court and replicate their success from the previous encounter. What could unfold is a strategic, high-intensity contest where depth and adaptability are the central themes.

Los Angeles Lakers’ Injury Report vs Portland Trail Blazers (November 3,. 2025)

The Los Angeles Lakers are severely impacted by injuries heading into the contest. LeBron James, the face of the franchise, is ruled out with sciatica, a nerve condition affecting his movement and explosiveness. The absence of key frontcourt players add further strain - Deandre Ayton will miss the game due to a back issue, while Maxi Kleber will sit out with an oblique strain. Guard Gabe Vincent is also unavailable because of an ankle injury.

Injuries 11/3

MIL:
Giannis Antetokounmpo - Probable
Kevin Porter Jr. - Out

IND:
Johnny Furphy - Probable
RayJ Dennis - Questionable
Andrew Nembhard - Out
Bennedict Mathurin - Out
Tyrese Haliburton - Out
TJ McConnell - Out
Obi Toppin - Out
Kam Jones - Out

MIN:
Anthony Edwards -…

— Underdog NBA (@UnderdogNBA) November 3, 2025

Despite these significant losses, Luka Doncic remains the Lakers’ anchor, carrying the offensive burden. Austin Reaves and Marcus Smart are set to complement him effectively, contributing through sharp shooting, perimeter defense, and ball movement. This trio has become the foundation of Los Angeles’ strategy as they navigate through limited rotation options.

Portland Trail Blazers Injury Report vs the Los Angeles Lakers (November 3, 2025)

The Portland Trail Blazers enter the matchup under similar strain. Their franchise cornerstone Damian Lillard remains sidelined for the season following a ruptured left Achilles tendon, while rising guard Scoot Henderson was out with a torn left hamstring. Defensive specialist Matisse Thybulle is unavailable due to a left thumb ligament tear, and Blake Wesley will miss the game with a right foot fracture.

Shaedon Sharpe, one of Portland’s young offensive sparks, is downgraded to probable because of left calf soreness but was still expected to play. Meanwhile, Jabari Smith Jr. is listed as questionable with an ankle sprain, further testing the Blazers’ rotation. In Lillard’s absence, veterans like Jrue Holiday and Jerami Grant will need to shoulder leadership roles, supported by Deni Avdija and other emerging contributors.

Lakers vs Trail Blazers Key Context and Tactical Dynamics


The November 3 meeting comes just days after the Portland Trail Blazers had beaten the Los Angeles Lakers 122-108 on October 28, giving Portland a psychological edge. However, the Lakers enter the rematch on a three-game winning streak, determined to flip the narrative. Luka Doncic’s exceptional form - averaging 45.3 points and 11.7 rebounds - makes him the focal point of attention.

Also read: Is LeBron James playing tonight vs the Portland Trail Blazers? Latest update on the Los Angeles Lakers star’s injury report (November 3, 2025)

Ultimately, the Los Angeles Lakers vs Portland Trail Blazers clash on November 3, 2025, is going to showcase perseverance and teamwork under pressure. Los Angeles cope with the absence of LeBron James and Deandre Ayton, while Portland navigate without Damian Lillard and multiple key guards. The game shows the depth and resilience of both squads, as standout performances from Luka Doncic, Jrue Holiday, and Jerami Grant kept the contest alive.