Lakers use dominant start to power through Grizzlies; take 2-1 series lead

by Benjamin Greenspan

When asked about Dillon Brooks a day before the game, LeBron James simply said, “I’m not here for the bull****, I'm here to play.” This message was made clear right from the tip, as the Lakers had a dominant first quarter, ending it with the largest first quarter deficit in playoff history, up 35-9.

While Memphis had their runs throughout the game, the Lakers never let it get below double digits. This was mainly due to dominant performances from James and Anthony Davis, who finished the game with 25 and 31 points, respectively.

Hachimura and Reaves continued to contribute with 16 and 13, while Russell had a solid bounce-back game with 17 points and seven assists. 

This game, while not close, was still very physical and chippy. This all starts with Brooks, who, after being booed throughout the game, not to mention 3-13 from the field, made contact with LeBron in the “groin area,” leading to him being ejected from the game.

Later in the quarter, Hachimura got into it with Grizzlies forward David Roddy, resulting in a technical foul. 

LA only has one day off from here on out in this series, playing Memphis again Monday with a chance to take a 3-1 series lead.

The Lakers have to take advantage of their home court and great crowd by keeping their foot on the gas pedal in order to take Game 4, which should be a much closer game.

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