Los Angeles Lakers vs Detroit Pistons regular season game: Full injury report, who’s out, where to watch, and more (December 30, 2025) | NBA News
The Los Angeles Lakers are back at Crypto.com Arena on December 30, 2025, facing one of their toughest tests of the season against the Detroit Pistons. Detroit owns the best record in the Eastern Conference at 24-8 and arrives in strong form. The Lakers, meanwhile, are dealing with a growing injury list that has disrupted any sense of rhythm.The game also falls on LeBron James’ 41st birthday, adding attention to an already high-profile matchup. With Luka Dončić now sharing the floor with LeBron, this stretch was expected to steady the Lakers. Instead, injuries have forced constant changes, leaving the team short-handed against a Pistons group that has benefited from stability.
Los Angeles Lakers injuries vs Detroit Pistons (December 30, 2025)
Los Angeles Lakers will be without several regular rotation players. Rui Hachimura is out with right calf soreness. Austin Reaves remains sidelined with a grade 2 left calf strain and is expected to miss about a month. Gabe Vincent is also unavailable due to a lumbar back strain.There is some relief up front, as Jaxson Hayes has cleared his ankle issue and is no longer listed on the injury report after being questionable earlier. Drew Timme, however, remains questionable as he continues through concussion protocol.These absences are expected to push head coach JJ Redick into using his 16th different starting lineup of the season. Bench players such as Nick Smith Jr. and Jake LaRavia are likely to see expanded roles as the Lakers try to cover gaps across the rotation.
Detroit Pistons injury report vs the Los Angeles Lakers (December 30, 2025)
Detroit Pistons’ injury situation is far more manageable. Caris LeVert is questionable after leaving the previous game with left knee soreness. Bobi Klintman is out with an ankle injury. Wendell Moore Jr. and Isaac Jones are also unavailable, though neither is part of the regular rotation.With most of their core available, the Pistons have been able to maintain consistency, which has played a major role in their strong start and solid road record.
Los Angeles Lakers vs Detroit Pistons Game time and broadcast details (December 30, 2025)
Tipoff is set for 10:30 PM ET (7:30 PM PT) in Los Angeles. The game was moved into NBC’s primetime slot, replacing Kings vs. Clippers, reflecting the league’s interest in the matchup. The broadcast will be available on NBC and FanDuel Sports Network Detroit, with streaming options including Peacock, NBA League Pass, Fubo, and local services.
Odds and matchup outlook
Detroit Pistons enter as a 2.5- to 3-point road favorite, with the total set around 232.5 to 233 points. The Los Angeles Lakers have struggled against the spread recently and have scored 108 points or fewer in three straight games. Still, they have remained competitive as home underdogs this season.Most projections point to a close Pistons win, with a one-point margin common. The focus will be on the guard matchup between Cade Cunningham and Luka Dončić, while Jalen Duren’s work in the paint could be a deciding factor. Given both teams’ ability to score, the total leans toward the over.
