The Los Angeles Lakers faced off against the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday for their first-round playoff series, and the game was eventful with both teams suffering injuries. Grizzlies’ Ja Morant left the game early due to a hand injury, which he has now disclosed as severe (Lakers Daily). This injury may impact his performance in the upcoming games, and the Lakers may catch a break with his absence in Game 2 (Lakers Daily).
Despite the scare, Lakers’ star Anthony Davis is available to return to the court for the next game, despite his strong start to the postseason on Sunday being cut short (CBS Sports). The Lakers may need all the help they can get as they face off against the Grizzlies.
Lakers’ former star Lamar Odom is bullish about his old team’s championship hopes this postseason and believes they can win the NBA Title (Bleacher Report). However, the Lakers haven’t won a playoff series since the 2020 NBA finals and need to step up their game to change that (Sporting News).
The Lakers had some unexpected contributions in the playoffs opener against the Grizzlies, with Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves combining for an impressive road victory (Silver Screen and Roll). In further news, the Lakers plan to exercise Jarred Vanderbilt’s team option this offseason, according to reports (CBS Sports).
Overall the Lakers may have their work cut out for them this postseason, but there is still hope for the team and their fans.
