Los Angeles Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies: 4 decisive keys to Game 3
Who will win a pivotal Game 3 between the Los Angeles Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies?
It would bode well for the Memphis Grizzlies if they could steal Game 3 of their first-round series against the Los Angeles Lakers. The Grizzlies were able to bounce back and win Game 2 after falling apart in the fourth quarter of Game 1.
Even though Ja Morant did not suit up for Game 2, the Grizzlies were able to get the victory despite the all-star guard sitting out with a hand injury. The Grizzlies have a 10-8 record without Morant in the lineup this season, but even if Morant is unable to go for Game 3, the Grizzlies should be just fine.
One big reason for their victory in Game 2 was their ability to defend the three. During Game 1, the Lakers shot 43.2 percent from downtown but struggled from behind the arc in Game 2 only connecting on 7 of 26 attempts at 27 percent. Heading into Game 3, we explore four keys and make a prediction.
AD must be consistent
LeBron James so far has been his usually efficient self as he is averaging 24.5 points, 11.5 rebounds, and four assists so far in the series. Don’t be surprised if James is forced to have to step it up a notch and take over on the offensive end especially if Anthony Davis has a similar performance to the one he had in Game 2.
Davis was a major problem for the Grizzlies in Game 1 especially on the defensive end where he recorded seven blocks and had three steals. He was a terror once again on the defensive end in Game 2 recording five blocks in that contest but lacked on the offensive end after scoring a disappointing 13 points on 4 for 14 shooting.
The Lakers’ chances at making a deep playoff run begin and end with Davis. It’s good that he is healthy and able to play but he must be productive on a consistent basis. He has to be the best player on the floor for the Lakers because he opens up the floor for everyone else to get open looks. Darvin Ham can also experiment with replacing Davis with Mo Bamba and Tristan Thompson whenever he goes to the bench or he could even move Davis to the power forward spot and put Bamba or Thompson in the middle.
Davis has done a spectacular job protecting the paint and with another 7-footer on the floor with him, it would force the Grizzlies to make their jump shots and deter the Grizzlies’ guards from driving to the basket.