Lakers Vs. Grizzlies Preview: Anthony Davis Returns For Critical Game.
After losing their last two games, the Los Angeles Lakers are not in the best position for the Play-In Tournament. But they can still climb with a little help and, most crucially, wins in their next two games, which begin in Memphis against the Grizzlies. Anthony Davis is expected to return to the lineup after missing Tuesday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors, and the Lakers need him to be his usual powerful self on both ends of the court. Without Davis, the Lakers lack defensive depth, and his ability to protect the rim and communicate to keep everyone together is critical to the team’s success.
LeBron James is also likely to play despite previously being listed as questionable due to ankle problems. He’s been performing well lately, and the Lakers know what they’re getting from their superstar, but the rest of the team needs to get rolling. D’Angelo Russell has struggled in recent games, shooting only 26.7% in the Lakers’ two losses when he has been required to have significant scoring performances. This is the ideal battle for him to regain his flow, and the Lakers will undoubtedly want to keep Rui Hachimura going, as he has been exceptional recently.
Hachimura has become something of an arch foe for the Grizzlies, appearing to excel against them since the playoffs last season. The Grizzlies have given up on the season as all of their top players are out due to injuries. Not only are top players like Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, and Jaren Jackson Jr. done for the year, but even role players like Luke Kennard, Santi Aldama, and Lamar Stevens will not suit up against the Lakers.
However, these are the types of competitions that can be used as trap games. The Grizzlies’ players may not be stars, but there are always people watching, and they will be eager to demonstrate their ability to contribute regularly at the NBA level. Jake LaRavia, in particular, is a superb deep shooter, and GG Jackson has also shown a lot of promise this season. With Davis and LeBron healthy, the Lakers should be able to put the Grizzlies away early and rest up for a crucial regular-season finale against the New Orleans Pelicans. However, if they play about, this gritty Grizzlies squad might make things considerably more tough than they should be.