Los Angeles Lakers: 4 Lessons from loss to the Memphis Grizzlies
By Ronald Agers
The Los Angeles Lakers suffered a disappointing loss to the Memphis Grizzlies. Here are four lessons from the game.
The Los Angeles Lakers got caught looking at the Christmas day showdown against the Golden State Warriors costing them a game that they needed to win. I mean the Lakers had nothing to worry about right? Two weeks ago, they rolled into Memphis and handed the Grizzlies a thorough butt-whipping…
Memphis was struggling with a five-game losing streak and dropping down the standings! This game should be a useful tune-up to build up momentum to go against the champs.
Well that’s why they play the games.
https://twitter.com/Lakers/status/1077069292061941760
The Los Angeles Lakers hit a Tennessee sized speed bump losing to the Memphis Grizzlies 107-99. The loss snapped the Lakers six-game winning streak at the Staples Center. It was a game that showed the flaws in this roster when it comes to rim protection and perimeter defense.
JaVale McGee was still out with what is now reported as pneumonia. After spending the last three days in a L.A. hospital, it will take him a week or two to get back in the swing of things. (Get better JaVale, the Lakers need you…BADLY!) Tyson Chandler was out for the second straight game, this time with back spasms. The responsibilities in the middle was left to Ivica Zubac (more on him in a minute!) and Moe Wagner.
But let’s be clear here, the Lakers lost this game because of very sloppy execution in the final moments. Memphis was allowed untimely offensive rebounds in the 4th quarter which led to second chance opportunities. Missed defensive assignments that led to dagger three-point shots and most importantly, the Lakers did not value the ball turning the ball over leading to easy Memphis points on the other end.
I could go into the free throw situation, but the Lakers are last in the league. That issue is self-explanatory.
Well… let’s get to it. Here are lessons about the game…