Ja Morant's return after a six-game absence sent shockwaves through the NBA, especially within the Memphis Grizzlies organization following the firing of Taylor Jenkins. The unusual timing sparked theories suggesting players often return to face the Lakers, a claim even Luka Dončić humorously acknowledged. Lakers fans have long believed that the league's stars tend to suit up against them, and analytics from head coach JJ Redick appeared to support this notion with a staggering 86% of opposing payroll available when facing Los Angeles this season.

While this data is only a single-season snapshot and lacks comprehensive historical context, it raises intriguing questions about how teams might preemptively adjust their game plans against the Lakers. If players are more likely to return from injury to play against them, Los Angeles might want to prepare for a lineup that could include previously doubtful stars. This insight, even if anecdotal, could give the Lakers a strategic edge as they navigate a competitive season.