Los Angeles Lakers vs Memphis Grizzlies Picks and Predictions December 15th 2024

Lakers Seek Redemption Against Grizzlies

The Los Angeles Lakers (15-9) host the Memphis Grizzlies (17-7) on Sunday night in a matchup featuring contrasting recent fortunes. While the Grizzlies are on an 11-3 streak, the Lakers are coming off a frustrating 97-87 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves on Friday, marked by turnovers and inconsistent play.

Lakers Eye Toughness and Efficiency

Lakers star Anthony Davis emphasized physicality and ball security as keys to turning the tide against Memphis. Davis, who posted 23 points and 11 rebounds in the loss to Minnesota, acknowledged the team’s struggles:
“We can’t have 22 turnovers like we did (against the Timberwolves).”

LeBron James, who is questionable due to a left foot injury, remains a pivotal factor for Los Angeles. Despite potentially missing his third straight game, James has been dominant against Memphis this season, averaging 37.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 10.0 assists in two meetings.

If James sits out, the Lakers will need stronger contributions from their supporting cast to counter Memphis’ balanced offense and aggressive defense.

Grizzlies on a Tear

Memphis enters the contest riding a four-game winning streak, capped by a 135-119 victory over the Brooklyn Nets on Friday. Ja Morant led the charge with 28 points, seven rebounds, and 10 assists, while Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Santi Aldama each contributed 20+ points.

Grizzlies head coach Taylor Jenkins highlighted the team’s defensive improvements and depth:
“Defensively, we’ve had progress in our pick-and-roll coverages and our one-on-one defense. But it’s all about consistency.”

The Grizzlies’ depth has been critical during their recent surge, though injuries to key players like Zach Edey (ankle), Jay Huff (knee), and Marcus Smart (knee) could test their rotation.

Keys to the Game

Los Angeles Lakers:

• Ball Security: Reduce turnovers to limit Memphis’ transition opportunities.
• Early Energy: Establish physicality and pace from the opening tip, particularly if LeBron James is unavailable.
• Role Player Impact: Secondary scorers like D’Angelo Russell and Austin Reaves need to step up.

Memphis Grizzlies:

• Balanced Scoring: Continue sharing offensive responsibilities across Morant, Bane, and Jackson Jr.
• Defensive Pressure: Capitalize on Los Angeles’ recent turnover woes.
• Dominate the Paint: Exploit potential mismatches with Aldama and Jackson Jr. against the Lakers’ interior.

Don’t miss out on the action—check out Sunday Night Football Odds & Predictions!

Matchup Outlook

The Lakers aim to avenge their loss to Minnesota and counter a Grizzlies team firing on all cylinders. For Memphis, maintaining their strong play and defensive consistency will be crucial in handling the physical challenge Davis and the Lakers bring.

Both teams split their previous meetings this season, and Sunday’s game could showcase another intense battle as the Lakers look to reclaim momentum and Memphis seeks to extend its hot streak.