D'Angelo Russell has missed the Los Angeles Lakers' last five games due to an ankle injury. At this point, he's missed more games than he's played in since his NBA trade deadline move from the Minnesota Timberwolves. The good news for Lakers fans is that Russell is now on the mend, and there's now a chance that he'll be able to return on Tuesday against a Ja Morant-less Memphis Grizzlies side.

D'Angelo Russell injury status vs. Grizzlies

Article Continues Below
More Los Angeles Lakers News
NBA player Deandre Ayton in a LA Lakers jersey with the LA Lakers arena in the background, Deandre Ayton free agency contract buyout
Why Lakers must pursue Deandre Ayton in free agency after Blazers buyoutDavid Yapkowitz ·
Lakers' LeBron James shoots over Blazers' Deandre Ayton
Lakers fans already recruiting Deandre Ayton after buyoutJedd Pagaduan ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) signals to teammates during the second half against the Portland Trail Blazers at Moda Center.
Bobby Marks details why Lakers’ LeBron James trade to Cavs won’t be easyRichard Pereira ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (23) reacts in the second half against the Indiana Pacers at Gainbridge Fieldhouse.
NBA rumors: Kevin O’Connor suggests Cavs try LeBron James trade with LakersJaren Kawada ·
Los Angeles Lakers forward Dorian Finney-Smith (17) celebrates after scoring a three pointer agains the Minnesota Timberwolves in the fourth quarter during game four of first round for the 2025 NBA Playoffs at Target Center.
Lakers rumors: Contenders lurking after Dorian Finney-Smith declines $15.4 million optionTroy Finnegan ·
LeBron James with the logos of every NBA team in the background.
Ranking 5 best LeBron James trade destinations after Rich Paul’s bombshell Lakers quotesBailey Bassett ·

The Lakers have tagged Russell as questionable to play on Tuesday. There's still a very good chance that he ends up sitting out the game, but it is worth noting that this is the first time D'Angelo has been listed as questionable. In previous games, the one-time All-Star was listed as out prior to games. The questionable tag is a noteworthy upgrade, and even if he ultimately misses Tuesday's matchup, it is clear that he is now close to returning.

The Lakers obviously need D'Angelo Russell back as soon as possible. LeBron James is still out with a foot injury, and he won't be back anytime soon. Anthony Davis has been killing it amid LA's injury crisis, but there's no denying that AD could use all the help he can get. The return of Russell will definitely be a major development for the Lakers at this point in their season.

Right now, LA is currently tied with the Utah Jazz for the 10th seed in the West. A guaranteed spot in the playoffs is still up for grabs with the Lakers just 2.5 games behind the sixth-seeded Minnesota Timberwolves.