Grizzlies blow out Lakers behind big nights from the Sophomores

The Memphis Grizzlies looked to bounce back from two tough losses in Vegas with a matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers. Vince Williams Jr. also made his return to the starting lineup, looking to inspire the Grizzlies on the defensive end and increase their overall intensity.

The Grizzlies got off to a great start early on, opening the game with a fantastic offensive run. The Grizzlies second year guys, Kenneth Lofton Jr, Jake LaRavia, Vince Williams Jr., and David Roddy all contributed early and often. Their defense was incredible early on, holding the Lakers without a field goal for the first 6:30 of the game. Eight quick points from GG Jackson gave the Grizzlies a 24-9 lead at the end of the first.

The second quarter was much of the same as the Grizzlies would extend their lead to 29 going into the half. LaRavia and Jackson led all scorers with 14 and 10 points respectively, but it was an all around effort early on. The Grizzlies would have eight players score in the first half and made nine threes before the half. 

Despite some explosive play for Lakers’ LJ Figueroa, who finished with 15 points, the Grizzlies’ lead would stay at 22 heading into the 4th quarter. The Grizzlies starters came back in to start the 4th and quickly increased the lead back to 30 and they would go on to win 100-69, improving to 2-2 in Las Vegas.

Jake LaRavia and David Roddy’s development 

It has been an up and down summer league for both Roddy and LaRavia, but they both had really good games today. LaRavia came out on fire and was the catalyst for the Grizzlies to get their early lead. On offense, Jake showed off some of his athleticism and off the dribble game, along with making three of his attempts from behind the arc. 

Roddy had his most efficient game of the summer league scoring 21 points on just 11 shots from the floor. He did an excellent job of using his strength to get easy looks inside. Roddy also showed off his ability to be a connective passer along with some nice assists, including a nice pass to Williams under the basket.

The Grizzlies desperately need spacing off the bench and better wing play next season. Both LaRavia and Roddy will likely be major role players for the Grizzlies, so seeing them play so well in the summer is definitely a good sign. Consistency is still an issue, but there is no doubt that both players have the skill set to contribute.

GG Jackson’s bounce back

After a tough couple of games, Jackson showed why he was once rated near the top of his class. He scored 15 points on 6-11 shooting and also looked much better on his catch and shoot three point attempts. Despite getting out on a poster on a putback, Jackson had a very impressive night in a game where he played in a smaller role off the bench.

Grizzlies defensive intensity

The defensive intensity for Memphis was on another level tonight, and a lot of that can be attributed to Williams’ return to the lineup. Los Angeles shot just 36% from the floor and 21% from three, the Grizzlies were smothering them all night. Even though they only forced 11 turnovers, they still had 18 fast break points mostly off of defensive rebounds. All in all it was a great night for the team as a whole on the defensive end holding the Lakers to just 69 points.