Lakers collapse in 4th quarter vs. Grizzlies despite another big night from LeBron.
After snapping a five-game losing streak in Tuesday's win over the Rockets, the Lakers looked to extend their win streak to two games before collapsing late in the 4th quarter after leading for the majority of the game, eventually losing to the Memphis Grizzlies 104–99 to drop their season record to 16–18.
After outscoring the Grizzlies 83–78 in the first 3 quarters of tonight's game, the Lakers looked in control before collapsing late in the fourth quarter after being outscored by 10 points (26–16) in the 4th quarter.
Grizzlies' young star Ja Morant was the biggest focal point in the Lakers' 4th quarter collapse, scoring a stellar game-high 41 points on 86% (6 for 7) shooting from three and 48% (13 for 27) overall in 35 minutes played.
Lakers interim head coach (offensive coordinator) David Fizdale spoke on Ja Morant going off from deep and having a big night, saying: "We let him get into a rhythm."
LeBron James has scored over 30 points in each of the last five games, extending his streak to six games in a row in tonight's loss with his huge outing. At 36 years old (turns 37 tomorrow), James leads the NBA in most games scoring over 30 points, a feat only a few great players have done at his age, showing just how historical of a player he is.
In his huge night, James tied his career-best in threes made, going 8 for 14 from behind the arc as he finished with 37 points on 52% (13 for 25) shooting overall, while also adding 13 rebounds, 7 assists, and a pair of blocks and steals in 37 minutes tonight.
Russell Westbrook recorded his third straight triple-double in tonight's loss, scoring 16 points on 44% (7 for 16) shooting, dishing out 12 assists, and grabbing 10 rebounds in his 39 minutes of action.
With most of the criticism toward Russell Westbrook's performance, Carmelo Anthony had himself a rare off night for the Lakers, shooting 1–8 (12%) from three and 2–11 (18%) overall with just 5 points in 30 minutes played.
The Lakers will return home for their matchup on New Year's Eve on Friday against the 13–21 Portland Trail Blazers, who are desperately looking for a win in a disappointing season.