Lakers Win Season-High 5th Straight Against Grizzlies

The Lakers were in Memphis to take on the Grizzlies on the second night of a back-to-back. After the emotionally draining come-back win they had against the Bucks on Tuesday, the Lakers would be without Anthony Davis, who played 52 minutes. 

Jaxson Hayes would have the task of filling the brow’s shoes. His role would be to bring energy around the glass and push the pace in transition. 

The Lakers also saw the return of LeBron James, which would be a massive boost with the absence of Davis. The king is averaging near a trouble-double this season, so his impact on all aspects of the game were sure to will the Lakers to a win. 

At tip-off, the Lakers were stagnant in their transition defense and had a few sloppy turnovers. This was expected given they went into double over time the night before. The Lakers shot 68% in the first quarter, and only saw a 1-point lead heading into the second quarter.

That’s when the Lakers were able to go on an 11-2 run, but idol defense allowed the Grizzlies to hang around. LeBron was able to add a little separation spreading the ball around the floor and showing off his mid-range game. 

Austin Reeves was also able to get in his utility bag and helped the Lakers take an 8-point lead into halftime. The mission would be simple the rest of the game, limit turnovers and make it out of Memphis with a win.

The Lakers were able to get hot from three in the third quarter shooting 9/11. D’Angelo Russell had 11 points in the quarter including three triples to help the Lakers extend their lead.  

LeBron James was also able to notch his 111th career triple double before the quarter ended. The hope would be that LeBron could rest in the fourth quarter given they were up a whopping 27.

The Lakers took their foot off the gas petal and the Grizzlies would go on a 15-0 run to cut the lead to 10 heading into the fourth quarter.

Rui Hachimura who was 7/8 from three on the night, was able to keep distance between themselves and Memphis. Hachimura’s career high from three elevated the Lakers to a 136-124 win. The victory extends the Lakers’ win streak to 5 winning their last 10 out of 14 games. 

“We play together, and we trust each other, that’s why we got the win.” Rui said after his 32-point performance. 

He emphasized how important having a relationship on and off the court is crucial for success. Being connected on offense and defense will prove to be critical in getting results.

The Lakers now find themselves getting closer to the 8^th seed with only 2 games separating them and the Suns. The Lakers have another winnable game against the Pacers on Friday and look to keep fighting their way out of a play-in spot.

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