Los Angeles, United States
Sports Desk | NBA Coverage
LOS ANGELES — The Los Angeles Lakers defeated the visiting Memphis Grizzlies 128-121 on Friday night at Crypto.com Arena, with superstars Luka Dončić and LeBron James each scoring 30 or more points and pacing a late surge to secure the victory, according to league and team reports.
Dončić led all scorers with 34 points, converting 17 of 20 free throws and adding key baskets in the third quarter, while James finished with 31 points and nine rebounds as the Lakers rallied to fend off Memphis’s comeback attempt.
Los Angeles built a strong start, establishing an early lead in the first quarter before the Grizzlies mounted pressure, including an 18-0 run that cut into the margin before halftime. Memphis stayed competitive throughout the second half, with Jaren Jackson Jr. scoring 25 points and Ja Morant recording 16 points and 11 assists in a double-double performance.
The Lakers shot efficiently from the field, finishing above 57 percent, and withstood the absence of key players Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura due to injury, the team said. Memphis also dealt with its own roster challenges, missing center Zach Edey for a 10th straight game.
Los Angeles improved its record and continued to show resilience in close contests, while Memphis dropped its third consecutive game. The matchup marked a notable head-to-head battle in the Western Conference, with the two teams scheduled to meet again in Los Angeles on Sunday.
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