Doncic Dominates as Lakers Secure 120-114 Win Over Struggling Grizzlies

Key Takeaways:

• Luka Doncic led Los Angeles with 36 points, nine rebounds, and eight assists
• The Lakers overcame an 11-point deficit late in the third quarter to defeat Memphis 120-114
• Memphis suffered a fourth consecutive defeat, with Ja Morant absent for the 15th time in 21 games

Match Overview

On Sunday night in Los Angeles, Luka Doncic turned in a stellar performance with 36 points, nine rebounds and eight assists, leading the Lakers to a 120-114 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. LeBron James delivered 26 points and 10 assists, as the Lakers recorded their second home win against Memphis within a three-day span. Los Angeles have now bounced back after dropping four of their previous five outings.

Got the job done pic.twitter.com/97mjqVHxkf

— Los Angeles Lakers (@Lakers) January 5, 2026

Player Performances and Key Moments

Jake LaRavia, facing his former side, contributed 26 points, while Deandre Ayton added 15 points to the Lakers’ tally. The Grizzlies, meanwhile, were buoyed by Jaylen Wells’ 23 points and a promising showing from rookie Cedric Coward, who tallied 16 points and nine rebounds, all before halftime. Coward was unfortunately sidelined after the break due to an ankle injury.

Jaren Jackson Jr. put up 14 points for Memphis, with Jock Landale recording a double-double of 13 points and 10 rebounds. The Grizzlies extended their losing streak to four games and continue to miss the presence of Ja Morant, who sat out his 15th contest in the last 21 due to a calf injury.

Game Flow and Turning Points

The Lakers found themselves trailing by 11 points just before the three-minute mark in the third quarter, but an 8-2 surge closed the gap to 87-83. LaRavia’s driving layup with 7:14 left in the fourth brought the scores level at 92-92, before he handed the Lakers their first lead since the opening quarter with another layup, making it 94-92.

Both teams traded advantages before Doncic’s pullup jumper put Los Angeles ahead 100-99 with 5:12 remaining. Back-to-back three-pointers from Doncic increased the Lakers’ cushion to 112-103 with 2:08 left on the clock, effectively securing the win.

Injury Update and Upcoming Fixtures

The Lakers achieved victory despite being without Rui Hachimura for the third consecutive match and Austin Reaves, who missed a fourth straight game; both are sidelined with calf injuries.

Next up, the Grizzlies will host the San Antonio Spurs on Tuesday, while the Lakers are set to visit the New Orleans Pelicans the same day.