MEMPHIS, Tenn. (WMC) - Memphis trails the Lakers 72-61 at halftime in a battle for the 4 seed in the West.
The Grizzlies are playing their first game without former head coach Taylor Jenkins since 2019.
The first quarter was understandably rough for the Grizzlies, who gave up 39 points to Los Angeles.
The onslaught did not stop there as the Lakers rained down 12 threes in the first half and shot 52% from the field.
Gabe Vincent was on fire, hitting 4 threes in the first half, totaling 15 points altogether.
Luka Doncic and Lebron James would score 14 points apiece.
Ja Morant, in his first game since March 14, scored 13 points, 3 rebounds, and 4 assists in the first half.
Scotty Pippen Jr. has continued his hot streak despite starting on the bench with 14 points, leading the team.
Memphis is attacking the basket well, outscoring LA 32-24 in the paint.
However, simple math is working in the Lakers’ favor as they have made 12 three-pointers as a team compared to 8 for Memphis.
7 Memphis turnovers have led to 13 points for the Lakers.
The winner of tonight’s game will move into the 4 seed in the Western conference.
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