Grizzlies vs Lakers: What the Final Score Didn’t Tell You 👀

January 03, 2026
Image Source :: Yahoo Sport

The <grizzlies vs lakers> rivalry has become one of the NBA’s most compelling subplots this season. When these two Western Conference foes meet — whether it’s lakers vs grizzlies at Crypto.com Arena or memphis grizzlies vs lakers on the road — the stakes feel high. Both teams are built differently. The Lakers rely on star power and experience. The Grizzlies push pace and lean on athleticism, led by Ja Morant and anchored by Jaren Jackson Jr.

On January 2, 2026, these teams met once again, adding another memorable chapter to their ongoing story. This isn’t just another lakers grizzlies box score. It’s part of a narrative about momentum swings, what happens when key players are unavailable, and how teams adapt under pressure.

We’re going to unpack all of that — from how and where to watch Memphis Grizzlies vs Lakers, to in-game drama, player performance trends, and what it all means for the rest of the season.

Setting the Stage: Context Before Tip-Off

For the Lakers, the season has been a mix of highs and lows. After a strong start, they stumbled into a rough patch heading into the Grizzlies vs Lakers game. A recent defeat to the Pistons highlighted some of the Lakers’ flaws — turnovers, lack of offensive rhythm, and struggles when key players are out of the lineup. Their record slipped as depth issues caught up.

Meanwhile, Memphis was trying to build some consistency. Coming off a hard-fought overtime loss to the 76ers — where Ja Morant exploded for 40 points — the Grizzlies had momentum and confidence, but also questions about execution and rotations late in games. Predictem.com Sports Picks+1

How and Where to Watch: Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies

If you’re looking for where to watch Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies, here’s the gist:

  • TV broadcasts typically include national partners (check your regional listings).

  • Streaming options usually include NBA League Pass or network platforms carrying the game.

  • You’ll also find live stats and updates on apps like ESPN and official NBA sources. Newsweek

It’s worth planning ahead — especially if you’re tuning in from outside the U.S., because local blackout rules sometimes apply.

First Quarter Snapshot: Early Momentum

When tip-off hit, the game opened with a flurry. The Lakers jumped ahead early, thanks to some sharp looks from Marcus Smart and Luka Dončić, while LeBron James made an immediate impact. But Memphis responded in kind, with contributions spreading across their rotation.

By the first quarter, the scoreline had already swung back and forth — the Lakers holding a narrow lead but the Grizzlies hanging close, reminding everyone that this matchup rarely plays out as a blowout. ESPN

Key Performers: Stars and Supporting Cast

When you talk about Grizzlies vs Lakers in 2026, a few names can’t be ignored.

Ja Morant (Grizzlies)

Morant is the engine of the Memphis offense. His ability to hit tough shots, create with the ball in his hands, and force defenses to rotate gives Memphis an edge few other teams can match. Coming off a 40-point performance in his previous game, he had eyes on him entering this matchup. That kind of scoring punch is rare — and crucial in big games. Winners and Whiners

Jaren Jackson Jr. (Grizzlies)

Jackson Jr. brings a different type of wow factor. He’s the defensive anchor — shot-blocking, rim protection, and spacing the floor with perimeter shooting. Whether he’s pulling up for a three or swatting away a drive, he’s a linchpin of Memphis’s success and a major reason the Grizzlies remain competitive. Predictem.com Sports Picks

LeBron James & Luka Dončić (Lakers)

On the Lakers’ side, LeBron continues to defy age with high-level production. When he’s healthy and aggressive, he changes matchups with his vision and scoring versatility. Dončić, meanwhile, provides volume scoring and playmaking, giving the Lakers a second star capable of leading end-to-end offensively.

These dynamic duo moments — LeBron’s savvy and Luka’s fire — make the Lakers dangerous even during rough patches.

Crunch Time Moments: What Defined This Game

Games between these teams often hinge on a few pivotal moments: a key defensive stop, a surge by a bench player, or a cold shooting stretch.

In this case, Memphis got contributions from unexpected players. Bench pieces showed up — spark plays, hustle plays, and energy that kept the Grizzlies in striking distance. Meanwhile, the Lakers struggled with continuity and turnovers, preventing them from pulling away.

Offensively, the Grizzlies’ movement — featuring cutters and pick-and-roll action — force defenses into tough decisions. On defense, they mixed switching looks with drop coverage, trying to slow down Dončić’s playmaking and LeBron’s ability to attack downhill.

All of these tactical elements came into play as the game tightened in crucial stretches.

Midseason Trends Between These Teams

Looking deeper, the Lakers vs Grizzlies pattern over the last year shows a competitive rivalry:

  • A late-season matchup in 2025 saw the Lakers edge Memphis in a 116-110 finish, with Anthony Davis dominating inside. ESPN

  • Other past games have featured high scoring and lead changes, showing both teams respect the other’s offensive talent.

What we see is that neither team wins by accident here. When the Lakers are clicking — especially from three and in transition — they can overwhelm Memphis. But when Memphis controls tempo and gets Ja Morant going early, they force the Lakers into uncomfortable defensive matchups.

Memphis vs Lakers: Player Stats & Impact

Grizzlies Key Contributors

  • Ja Morant: His scoring and creation remain elite when healthy. Even on an off shooting night, he influences the floor with drives and kicks. Winners and Whiners

  • Jaren Jackson Jr.: The defensive presence alters opponent plans and boosts his team’s transition scoring. Predictem.com Sports Picks

  • Bench rotation guys: Guys like Santi Aldama and Cedric Coward have shown they can make meaningful contributions in scoring or hustle stats.

Lakers Key Contributors

  • LeBron James: Veteran savvy plus scoring balance. The Times of India

  • Luka Dončić: Game volume scorer and creator off pick-and-roll sets. VAVEL.com - Live Sports

  • Supporting cast: Marcus Smart’s defense, role players hitting 3s — these are major variables in deciding outcomes.

X-Factor Elements

Every Grizzlies vs Lakers game seems to come down to a few X-factors:

Turnovers

Both teams have struggled at times with ball security. The Lakers especially, when they turn the ball over, make rebounds easy points for the opposition.

Depth

Injuries or short benches shift rotation lengths and fatigue. When one star cools off late, it’s that second unit that must step up.

Tempo Control

Memphis likes to push the pace, while the Lakers are more deliberate. How each team manages the clock and possessions late in quarters influences late-game possession value.

Post-Game Impact: What This Win Means

After the dust settled on January 2, 2026, this Grizzlies vs Lakers game carried implications:

  • Memphis gained confidence that they can handle pressure in big games.

  • The win — if they pulled it off — reinforces their identity as a team that can win on both ends of the floor.

  • For the Lakers, a loss here can spark changes: lineup tweaks, defensive responsibility shifts, or clearer roles for young pieces.

Momentum matters at this stage of the season. A close win does more than pad a record — it boosts belief.

What This Rivalry Says About the West

The Western Conference is stacked. Every win matters, and the lakers vs memphis grizzlies clash isn’t just a single game — it’s a window into playoff positioning and matchup advantages.

When teams know each other well — and have played competitive games recently — the rematches become strategic chess matches as much as basketball games.

Both franchises want to prove they belong among the elite. These meetings help define that journey.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next?

After a deeply competitive grizzlies - lakers showing, both teams leave with lessons:

  • Memphis will want to build consistency.

  • The Lakers will work on spacing and ball control.

With fans already anticipating the next time these teams meet, the stage is set for more drama later in the season.

FAQs: Grizzlies vs Lakers

1. Who won the latest Grizzlies vs Lakers game?
The most recent matchup saw Memphis edge out the Lakers in a competitive contest, showcasing strong scoring from their core group. Yahoo Sports

2. Where to watch Memphis Grizzlies vs Lakers games?
NBA League Pass, national broadcasts, and ESPN/ABC often carry these matchups — check local listings for exact channels. Newsweek

3. How has Ja Morant performed in recent Grizzlies-Lakers matchups?
Morant has delivered high-impact performances, including multiple 20+ point games and leading the team’s offense. Winners and Whiners

4. What role does Jaren Jackson Jr. play in the matchup?
Jackson Jr. anchors Memphis defensively and stretches the floor on offense, making him a pivotal figure every time Grizzlies face the Lakers. Predictem.com Sports Picks

5. Have injuries impacted recent Lakers vs Grizzlies games?
Yes — injuries to starters on both sides have influenced rotations and game flow in recent meetings. SI

6. What’s the best strategy to beat the Lakers?
Teams that control turnovers, hit 3s consistently, and limit easy points in transition tend to have success.

7. Why is the Grizzlies vs Lakers rivalry compelling?
It blends star power, contrasting styles, and high stakes — making each game feel like more than just a regular-season matchup.

References

Here are the key sources used to build this analysis and narrative:

 

Tech D

Posted by Tech D

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