LOS ANGELES – In an exciting matchup on Sunday night, the Los Angeles Lakers defeated the Memphis Grizzlies with a score of 116-110, thanks to an impressive performance by Anthony Davis, who scored 40 points and grabbed 16 rebounds. LeBron James made his return to the court, contributing 18 points, alongside eight rebounds and eight assists throughout 34 minutes of play. He had missed two games previously due to a left foot injury but managed to bounce back effectively, despite having been away for personal reasons earlier in the week.
Austin Reaves also had a notable game for the Lakers, scoring 19 points. The team dominated throughout the night, never relinquishing the lead and at one point enjoying a 23-point advantage in the second half.
On the opposing side, Jaren Jackson Jr. led the Grizzlies with 25 points, but the team’s winning streak of four games was halted. Ja Morant contributed 20 points, while Zach Edey recorded a double-double with 13 points and 10 rebounds. Luke Kennard rounded out the scoring with 12 points.
For the Grizzlies, their challenges were apparent as they entered the game as the NBA’s top-scoring offense but found themselves trailing 64-46 by halftime. Throughout the second half, they struggled to close the gap, remaining behind by at least two possessions.
James’ return brought a renewed energy to the Lakers, yet it was Davis who showed exceptional skill, particularly in the first half, where he accumulated 22 points and 10 rebounds. He did briefly exit the game in the third quarter due to a shoulder issue but returned in the fourth quarter to score 12 crucial points in the closing moments.
A pivotal moment in the game occurred when James scored his first points with a dynamic running one-handed dunk just over two minutes into the first quarter. He followed that with a block and a tip-in basket during the Lakers’ next offensive possession, helping to establish a quick 9-2 lead for Los Angeles.
Notably, Davis has performed phenomenally in recent games, achieving at least 30 points and 10 rebounds in three of his last four appearances.
Looking ahead, both teams are scheduled for action again on Thursday night, with the Grizzlies set to host the Golden State Warriors and the Lakers traveling to face the Sacramento Kings.
