What's Happening?
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 120-114 in a closely contested game on January 4, 2026. Luka Doncic led the Lakers with 36 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists, while LeBron James
contributed 26 points and 10 assists. The Lakers managed to rally from an 11-point deficit late in the third quarter, eventually taking the lead in the fourth quarter. Jake LaRavia, a former Grizzlies player, also scored 26 points for the Lakers. The Grizzlies, who were without key player Ja Morant due to a calf injury, suffered their fourth consecutive loss. Despite a strong performance from Jaylen Wells and rookie Cedric Coward, the Grizzlies could not maintain their lead.
Why It's Important?
This victory is significant for the Lakers as it marks their second consecutive home win against the Grizzlies, helping them recover from a recent slump where they lost four out of five games. The win boosts the Lakers' morale and standings in the league, showcasing their ability to perform under pressure and come back from deficits. For the Grizzlies, the loss highlights ongoing challenges, particularly with injuries affecting key players like Ja Morant, impacting their performance and consistency.
What's Next?
The Lakers will face the New Orleans Pelicans in their next game, aiming to continue their winning streak. The Grizzlies will host the San Antonio Spurs, looking to break their losing streak and regain momentum. Both teams will need to address their injury concerns and strategize to improve their standings in the league.
