Grizzlies Set to Challenge Lakers’ Defensive Shortcomings
The Memphis Grizzlies are poised to kick off the new year with a pivotal mini-series against the Los Angeles Lakers. While the Lakers have demonstrated a stronger overall performance this season, they come into this matchup with vulnerabilities that the Grizzlies will seek to exploit. Following back-to-back humiliating losses at home—first to the Houston Rockets on Christmas and then to the Detroit Pistons on Tuesday—the Lakers are undoubtedly on high alert.
Memphis, on the other hand, has been grappling with their own issues, struggling to secure a solid footing in the Play-In standings and repeatedly failing to return to a .500 record. As they prepare for this crucial showdown, one key area of focus will be their ability to defend without fouling. The Lakers rank among the top three teams in the league for free-throw attempts, so avoiding foul trouble will be paramount. Any accumulation of fouls could force the Grizzlies to rely on less experienced substitutes, potentially weakening their chances.
Creating Defensive Challenges for the Lakers
To gain an advantage, the Grizzlies must work to make the Lakers’ stars exert themselves defensively. Luka Dončić, known for his offensive prowess, has struggled at times on the defensive end this season. Memphis should aim to involve him in numerous actions, such as screen rolls, and look to attack him whenever he is caught hiding on the perimeter. Similarly, LeBron James has a tendency to conserve energy on defense by avoiding matchups with stronger opponents. The Grizzlies can take advantage of this by exploiting James’ difficulties in navigating screens.
Additionally, the Grizzlies should aim to accelerate the pace of the game. Transition defense has been a weakness for the Lakers, which presents a prime opportunity for Ja Morant to leverage his speed and agility as a playmaker. Pushing the tempo will keep the Lakers on their heels and reduce their ability to set up defensively.
Rebounding and 3-Point Defense as Key Factors
Rebounding will play a crucial role in this matchup. The Grizzlies have the potential to dominate the boards, especially if Cedric Coward can replicate his impressive 16-rebound performance alongside Jaren Jackson Jr.’s 12 boards against the Philadelphia 76ers. Outworking the Lakers on the glass will deny them second-chance opportunities, a vital element for Memphis’ success.
Moreover, while the Lakers have struggled with their three-point shooting this season, the Grizzlies must improve their perimeter defense. Memphis has allowed a concerning average of 21.8 wide-open three-point attempts per game. To avoid giving up open shots in transition or from the corners, the Grizzlies need to tighten their long-range defense.
Supporting Morant and Jackson in Their Efforts
While Ja Morant and Jaren Jackson Jr. will undoubtedly be pivotal in driving Memphis’ success, the contributions of role players will be essential. If these supporting players can consistently hit open three-point shots, the Grizzlies could transform a tightly contested game into a dominant performance.
The Lakers have shown vulnerabilities in their half-court defense, often overcommitting to star players. This tendency will create opportunities for Memphis’ other players to cut to the basket and find open lanes. Effective movement without the ball will be critical for the Grizzlies in maximizing their offensive potential.
As the two teams prepare for this important clash, the stage is set for a thrilling contest that could have significant implications for both franchises. The Grizzlies will need discipline, strategic execution, and contributions from their entire roster to seize the opportunity against a Lakers team eager to bounce back from recent disappointments.
