The Los Angeles Lakers bounced back to winning ways in Game 3 of the playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies and will look to build on that momentum when the two teams meet at the Crypto.com Arena on Monday.
The Grizzlies head into this contest fully aware that a win would help them seize homecourt advantage for the remaining three games. They will also know that their superstar Ja Morant, who dropped 45 points in the last game, will need some support against a relentless LA unit who still won 110-101.
For the Purple and Gold, it’s all about showing up and doing what they have done throughout the second half of the regular season, and with the defense finally showing up, they have been mercurial about that end to hold off the Grizzlies.
The contest has been filled with storylines: LeBron James vs. Dillon Brooks, Jaren Jackson Jr. vs. Anthony Davis, Rui Hachimura vs. Desmond Bane — it’s all there with the Lakers winning some of these battles so far. The question is if they can keep at it and close out a series win early.
On that note, here’s a look at the expected lineups, the injury report from both camps, and the predicted outcome.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
There are two familiar faces in the injury report for the Lakers. LeBron James (foot) and Anthony Davis (foot) are listed probable for Game 4. Dennis Schroder (foot) joins the list as well, but it’s likely that all three of these players will suit up.
The projected five for the Lakers are D’Angelo Russell (G), Austin Reaves (G), LeBron James (F), Jarred Vanderbilt (F), and Anthony Davis (C).
Memphis Grizzlies Expected Lineups And Injuries Updates
ESPN’s injury report lists Jake LaRavia (calf) as out. Also missing out are Steven Adams (knee) and Brandon Clarke (Achilles).
Expect Memphis to deploy the same unit as the last game. Desmond Bane (G), Ja Morant (G), Jaren Jackson Jr. (F), Dillon Brooks (F), and Xavier Tillman (C) are likely to be the starting five for the visitors.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies Predictions
This will be one of those contests that the Lakers will hope to capitalize on. The Grizzlies are smarting, and they lack the playoff experience that James brings to the table for LA.
The Lakers’ defense and the contributions from their bench will be key if they intend to seize Game 4 and continue their winning streak.
Such has been his focus on winning, that he didn’t really pay heed to all the chatter surrounding him and Dillon Brook’s comments on the veteran.
“Not, at the end of the day I think my resume and what I’ve done for this league speak for itself,” the four-time champion said. “I don’t really get caught up in any comments like that.”
It’s not easy for the Grizzlies to overpower a team led admirably by a seasoned forward. Couple this with a healthy Lakers unit, they will relish what Morant and Memphis can bring to the fore on Monday. For now, it’s advantage LA in Game 4.
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