Can the Los Angeles Lakers close out the series against the Memphis Grizzlies in Game 6?
The answer to the question is far from easy, especially after the dogged 116-99 win by the Grizzlies to keep their second-round playoff aspirations alive. But now, the Lakers have two advantages — they are ahead by a game, still leading 3-2, and they are playing the crucial encounter at home.
The storylines are far from over. Dillon Brooks and Desmond Bane sounded warning gongs about making some daggers and forcing a Game 7, respectively. On the other side, LeBron James admitted to a “s**t performance” and that means the knives are being sharpened again.
Again, the most important FAQ: Can the Lakers close this series out in Game 6?
Ideally, the one way LA can have their nose out in front is by treating this as a Game 7, or opponents who can take the game away from them every step of the way. After a dismal offense that was in the limelight in Game 5, they will be keen to regroup and close the series with a game to spare.
Then comes the bigger problem: The non- Anthony Davis minutes. While using Wenyen Gabriel is a stop-gap solution, they will need to figure out an interior presence who can score when Davis sits. With his hip injury doing the rounds, it remains to be seen if he can play for all 48 minutes as he claims.
Related: 3 Reasons Why The Memphis Grizzlies Can Upset The Los Angeles Lakers
On that note, let’s delve into the projected starters, the injury report from both teams and the injuries ahead of Friday’s marquee clash at the Crypto.com Arena.
Los Angeles Lakers Expected Lineups And Injury Updates
According to ESPN, the Lakers listed Anthony Davis (foot), LeBron James (foot), and Dennis Schroder (Achilles) as probable, but like so far in the series, all three players will almost definitely suit up for the skirmish.
Expect LA to go with the same opening unit: D’Angelo Russell (G), Austin Reaves (G), LeBron James (F), Jarred Vanderbilt (F), and Anthony Davis (C).
Memphis Grizzlies Expected Lineups And Injury Updates
The Grizzlies have listed Luke Kennard (shoulder) as questionable while Steven Adams (knee), Brandon Clarke (Achilles), and Jake LaRavia as out.
Desmond Bane (G), Ja Morant (G), Jaren Jackson Jr. (F), Dillon Brooks (F), and Xavier Tillman (C) are the projected starters for Memphis.
Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies Predictions
The Lakers are still firm favorites heading into Game 6. Barring the hiccups in Games 2 and 5, they have been relentless and impressive on both ends of the floor.
All eyes will be on James and Davis as they look to bring their championship experience to the fore and close the Grizzlies out, who will look to take the series deeper and tire the Lakers out.
Also, expect James to bring his A-game to the fore, and not let the Grizzlies get closer. The latter has struggled on offense, with Ja doing the bulk of the damage.
Only time will tell if they have it in them to force the much-talked-about Game 7. On the predictions front, expect the purple and gold to walk away with a win.
We sincerely appreciate and respect you as a reader of our site. It would help us a lot if you follow us on Google News because of the latest update.
Thanks for following us. We really appreciate your support.
