Lakers star center Anthony Davis believes Los Angeles will need to rely on its toughness when they host the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday night.
The Lakers failed to do so on Friday, falling 97-87 to the Minnesota Timberwolves. Davis contributed 23 points and 11 rebounds, but he also had four of Los Angeles’ season-high 22 turnovers.
After watching his team never take the lead against Minnesota, Davis is determined to ensure that the Lakers bring a higher level of intensity to their matchup with Memphis.
Davis is also hoping for a much cleaner performance than what the Lakers displayed on Friday.
Superstar LeBron James is at risk of missing his third consecutive game as he continues to recover from a left foot injury. The 39-year-old James is averaging 23.0 points, 8.0 rebounds, and 9.1 assists per game this season and is listed as questionable for Sunday.
James has been dominant against Memphis this season, averaging 37.0 points, 9.5 rebounds, and 10.0 assists in two games. The Grizzlies and Lakers have split those meetings, with Los Angeles winning the most recent contest 128-123 on November 13.
Since that game, Memphis has been on fire, going 11-3 over their past 14 games.
Memphis’ impressive run includes an active four-game winning streak, highlighted by a 127-121 road win over the defending champion Boston Celtics. The Grizzlies are coming off a 135-119 victory over the Nets on Friday.
Ja Morant led the charge against Brooklyn with 28 points, seven rebounds, and 10 assists, while Desmond Bane added 21 points and both Jaren Jackson Jr. and Santi Aldama contributed 20 points each.
Big men Zach Edey (ankle) and Jay Huff (knee) are questionable for Memphis on Sunday, as is guard Marcus Smart (knee).
