The Los Angeles Lakers are fighting hard to advance in the first round of the playoffs against the Memphis Grizzlies, with Game 4 being an absolute battle between both teams (Lakers Nation). For the Lakers, players’ injury statuses are a concern. According to a recent Lakers injury report, three of their five most important ball handlers have been downgraded (Sports Illustrated). However, star player Anthony Davis has been dealing with a hip issue for a week and a half but insists that he will be fine (Lakers Nation).
Even with these concerns, the Lakers have been finding success on the court. Guard D’Angelo Russell hit three huge 3-pointers in Game 4, and forward LeBron James put on an impressive performance, notching his first 20-20 game and receiving praise from his coach (Lakers Nation). However, the Lakers are not getting caught up in individual success. Davis is more focused on helping the team win than his offensive production (Lakers Nation).
Off the court, there has been some drama surrounding Memphis Grizzlies players Dillon Brooks and Ja Morant, who declined to speak to the media after their Game 4 loss to the Lakers (Lakers Nation). Brooks has also been in the spotlight for possibly facing suspension for his behavior on the court (Sports Illustrated). Despite this, James deflected questions about Dillon Brooks and shifted focus to beating the Grizzlies (Lakers Nation).
For Lakers rookie Austin Reaves, playing in the postseason and receiving MVP chants has been a dream come true (Lakers Nation). And the team knows they need to stay focused and avoid letting the series tie, as they do not want to return to Memphis for a Game 6 (Lakers Nation).
Overall, the Lakers are facing both on-court and off-court challenges as they fight to advance in the playoffs against the Grizzlies. But with their star players giving it their all, they are hopeful for success.
