Luka Doncic and LeBron James dominate Memphis to maintain their clutch streak
Jan 4, 2026; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers forward LeBron James (right) is greeted by forward Luka Doncic (77) after making a basket during the fourth quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images
The Los Angeles Lakers continue their impressive streak in decisive moments by defeating the Memphis Grizzlies 120-114, who were without Ja Morant. Down by 16 points in the first half, JJ Redick’s team once again demonstrated their ability to overcome difficult situations thanks to the exceptional talent of their leaders.
A late but effective awakening from the magic duo
After a disastrous first half where they trailed by 11 points at halftime (65-54), the Lakers found the necessary resources to reverse the trend. Luka Doncic, who finished with 36 points, 9 rebounds and 8 assists, was the main architect of this spectacular comeback. The Slovenian particularly shined in the final quarter, hitting two consecutive 3-pointers to give his team a nine-point lead with two minutes remaining.
LeBron James, with his 26 points, 7 rebounds and 10 assists, perfectly supported his teammate in this battle. The ageless King was decisive in the fourth quarter, first scoring a layup then a 3-pointer to bring the Lakers within one point, before setting up Jake LaRavia for four crucial points.
Jake LaRavia gets revenge on his former team
Forward Jake LaRavia delivered a remarkable performance with 26 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists. Traded by Memphis last season, he took great pleasure in getting revenge on his former franchise. After already scoring 21 points and 9 rebounds in the previous game between these two teams, LaRavia confirms that he represents a valuable asset for the Lakers in their quest for consistency.
On the Grizzlies side, GG Jackson and Jaylen Wells tried to keep their team afloat, while Cedric Coward had shined in the first half with 13 points before not reappearing after halftime due to an ankle sprain.
This victory allows the Lakers to extend their most impressive statistic of the season: 12 wins and 0 losses in close games. An undefeated record in the « money time » that demonstrates the experience and composure of their leaders, particularly Doncic and James, capable of elevating their game when the stakes are highest.
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