LeBron James guided the Los Angeles Lakers to a 120-114 victory over Memphis on Sunday, contributing 26 points and 10 assists. After the game, he discussed how the team improved defensively in the second half.
“They played exceptional basketball in the first half when we knew we was going to get their best shot,” James said. “In the second half we started to crack into, you know, crack the code a little bit. Was able to get the lead down in the third.”
James also highlighted the impact of Jake LaRavia’s scoring. “We need his ability to, you know, score bunches at times. With AR and Rui out, that’s a lot of points. To have that step up from Jake has been huge. He’s playing with a lot of confidence.”
The Lakers simplified their offense due to injuries, and James emphasized the value of fundamentals. “In order to win at the highest level, you have to be able to do the simple things. You can’t execute the big things if you don’t execute the small things,” he said. He added that reducing turnovers was key: “When we don’t turn the ball over, we can be pretty good.”
James also reflected on his approach this season after missing the start. “Just appreciating every moment, getting another opportunity to get my body where it needs to be to perform. My time is definitely on the other side of the hill than the first part of the year, so I just appreciate it all,” he said.
Despite a reduced role with the ball, James has maintained high efficiency. “Even though my usage may look different than before, I have to be a complete basketball player. Picking spots and figuring out ways to still be productive helps us play winning basketball,” he said.
The Lakers overcame an 11-point deficit late in the third quarter, tying the game at 92-92 on a driving layup by LaRavia before taking the lead for good at 100-99 on a pull-up jumper from Luka Doncic with 5:12 remaining.
James praised the team’s execution on offense and defense in tight moments. “You have to be able to execute after timeouts, dead balls, coming out of the locker room. That’s how you win games at the highest level,” he said.
Los Angeles won without Rui Hachimura and Austin Reaves, marking their second home victory over Memphis in three days. The Lakers will visit New Orleans on Tuesday, while the Grizzlies aim to end a three-game skid against the Spurs.
