The Los Angeles Lakers steadied themselves on Friday night, responding to a humbling blowout loss to the Detroit Pistons by taking control against the Memphis Grizzlies. With their season wobbling in recent weeks, the Lakers leaned heavily on their two superstars, as LeBron James and Luka Dončić seized the game and refused to let it slip.
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James poured in 31 points while Dončić led the way with 34, powering the purple and gold to a 128–121 victory that restored a measure of confidence to a group searching for traction. Defensive issues that have plagued the Lakers all season didn’t completely disappear, but there was noticeable improvement. More importantly, the offense finally looked cohesive and authoritative.
After the game, Dončić pointed to increased movement on his part, noting that he pushed the pace and worked up and down the floor more than usual against Memphis. Alongside James, who delivered his familiar blend of scoring, control, and leadership, that approach allowed the Lakers to dictate the flow of the game.
“Trying to get downhill a lot more than usual for me I would say but for him Lebron just playing his game. Attacking whatever he see, being efficient and helping us win the games,” Doncic said, dissecting his and James’ performance.
Instead of relying on late-game heroics or improbable comebacks, Los Angeles played from a position of strength, setting a standard they will need to replicate if they hope to reverse their recent struggles.
Ever since James’ return from sciatica, his role has been heavily scrutinized. Many feel that his presence on the court, while it gets him points, does not translate to wins for the Lakers and limits Doncic’s impact. But they proved that that is not the case.
Doncic also admitted that the defensive energy brought by the other players on the team can become contagious, something the Lakers have heavily lacked this 25/26 season. Doncic is not the best defender on the court, and James is 41, so it is up to the rest of the squad to step up and lead by example on that end. When that happens, everyone runs and contributes, even Luka himself.
Jake LaRavia also put in a solid shift, scoring 21 points and grabbing nine rebounds. With Austin Reaves sidelined due to injury, it is of paramount importance that someone steps up to support James and Doncic.
The Lakers face the Grizzlies once again on Sunday and will be hoping to build a winning streak from here on.
