Luka Doncic delivered an impressive performance with 34 points, including a significant 17 from the free-throw line, as the Los Angeles Lakers triumphed over the Memphis Grizzlies 128-121 on Friday night. This victory marked the beginning of a two-game series between the two teams, with a rematch scheduled for Sunday in Los Angeles.
Doncic also contributed eight assists and six rebounds, while LeBron James added 31 points alongside nine rebounds and six assists. The pair showcased their talent in the fourth quarter, leading an incredible 12-2 run that ultimately secured the win for the Lakers. During this decisive stretch, Doncic scored four points and assisted on two three-pointers, while James capped the streak with a crucial basket.
The Grizzlies faced challenges with a heavily depleted roster, missing six players, including Zach Edey. Despite this setback, Jaren Jackson Jr. stepped up, scoring 25 points to lead his team. The Grizzlies had six players reach double figures, showing resilience even as they suffered their fourth loss in six games, falling two games under .500 on the road. Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, a former Laker, contributed 20 points, and Ja Morant notched 16 points along with 11 assists, continuing his momentum from a previous 40-point game against Philadelphia.
In a twist, the Lakers initially relinquished a 15-point lead in the second quarter as the Grizzlies launched an impressive comeback, scoring 18 consecutive points to claim their first lead of the game. Caldwell-Pope was pivotal during this run, hitting two of the Grizzlies’ four three-pointers, with Jock Landale contributing seven points during the surge. As a result, the teams entered the fourth quarter tied at 96.
With both teams poised to meet again on Sunday at 6:30 p.m., fans are excited to see if the Grizzlies can bounce back after their tough loss or if the Lakers will continue their winning streak.