Memphis GrizzliesOpen full analysis
Los Angeles LakersOpen full analysis
The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies 120–114 on January 4, 2026, at Crypto.com Arena, with Luka Dončić leading all scorers with 36 points and LeBron James adding 26 in the victory. The Lakers' fourth-quarter dominance proved decisive, outscoring Memphis 37–27 in the final frame to secure the six-point win below the Vegas total of 238.5 points. Los Angeles shot 47.5 percent from the field and made 11 three-pointers while generating 30 assists on 120 points, though 10 turnovers limited efficiency. Memphis, led by J. Wells's 23 points and C. Coward's 16, couldn't overcome a sluggish third quarter in which they managed just 22 points; the Grizzlies shot 42 percent and made 10 threes but were outrebounded 47–45 despite six steals. The Lakers' defensive rating of 112.1 held firm down the stretch, while Memphis's 120.0 defensive rating allowed too much late-game scoring. The Lakers' fourth-quarter surge signals their ability to close tight contests, positioning them favorably in the Western Conference race.
