Man, what a way to kick off 2026! If you missed last night’s Lakers vs Grizzlies showdown at Crypto.com Arena, you missed an absolute barnburner. The final score: Lakers 128, Grizzlies 121. It wasn’t pretty at times—Memphis fought like hell and nearly stole it—but when it mattered most, Luka Dončić and LeBron James reminded everyone why they’re two of the best to ever do it.
As a lifelong Lakers fan who’s been through the highs (multiple rings) and lows (those rough rebuild years), watching these two superstars share the court still feels surreal. Luka with his wizardry, LeBron defying Father Time at 41… it’s pure basketball magic.
How the Game Unfolded Between Lakers vs Grizzlies – A Rollercoaster Ride
The Lakers came out firing, building a quick 15-point lead in the second quarter with aggressive drives and hot shooting. Jaxson Hayes and Christian Koloko were throwing down dunks, and it looked like LA might run away with it early.
But credit to the Grizzlies—they’re scrappy, even shorthanded (missing guys like Zach Edey and others). Memphis unleashed an insane 18-0 run to not just erase the deficit but take the lead. Their bench was electric, outscoring our reserves big time. Jock Landale capped that spurt with a finish at the rim, and suddenly it was a whole new ballgame.
Halftime: Lakers up by just 6 after LeBron closed strong with some vintage buckets.
The third quarter was back-and-forth, with Luka heating up (he dropped 15 in that frame alone). The game was tied heading into the fourth—nail-biting stuff.
In the clutch, our stars took over. LeBron scored key baskets, Luka attacked relentlessly (drawing fouls like it was 2022 Mavs Luka), and they pulled away late with a 12-2 run. Final margin: 7 points, but it felt closer.
Standout Performers : Lakers vs Grizzlies
- Luka Dončić: 34 points (17-20 FT! He lived at the line), 6 rebounds, 8 assists, 2 steals. Only one three, but who cares when you’re dominating inside? Kid’s a beast.
- LeBron James: 31 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists. At 41, he’s still turning back the clock with drives and mid-range pull-ups. That energy in the fourth? Chef’s kiss.
- Jake LaRavia (Lakers bench hero): 21 points, 9 boards. Dude was everywhere—hustle plays, triples, you name it.
On the Grizzlies side:
- Jaren Jackson Jr.: 25 points, leading their charge.
- Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: 20 points, including a bunch in the third to keep them in it.
- Ja Morant: 16 points, 11 assists (another double-double). He wasn’t explosive scoring-wise, but his playmaking kept Memphis alive.
Collision Course: Slumping Lakers Brace for Ja Morant’s Grizzlies …
Why This Game Was So Fun to Watch Between Lakers vs Grizzlies
This wasn’t some blowout—it was a genuine thriller with momentum swings, big runs, and star power on display. The pace was frantic, points were pouring in (high-scoring affair, obviously), and both teams left it all on the floor. Memphis’ bench depth almost pulled off the upset, but LA’s top-end talent won out.
Personally, as someone who’s watched LeBron since his Cleveland days, seeing him pair with Luka like this gives me chills. It’s not just stats; it’s the effortless chemistry. Luka deferring when needed, LeBron facilitating… if they stay healthy, this team could make serious noise in the West.
What It Means Moving Forward
This win snaps a rough skid for the Lakers (we’d lost 4 of 5 coming in) and improves us to 21-11. Huge confidence booster heading into the rematch with Memphis soon.
For the Grizzlies, they’re gritty but injuries are piling up. They’ll fight, but staying afloat in the crowded West will be tough.
All in all, basketball like this is why we love the NBA. No defense for stretches, sure—but pure entertainment. Can’t wait for the next one!
What did you think of the game? Drop your thoughts below—Luka MVP chants or LeBron GOAT vibes?
Go Lakers! 🏆💜💛
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