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Scott Polacek is the featured Columnist for December 30, 2021.
AP Photo/Nikki Boertman
Ja Morant didn't have sympathy for the Los Angeles Lakers fans who traveled to attend the game after the Memphis Grizzles won at home.
Morant said the win felt even better because the people in purple and yellow were going to be sad. Go back to L.A.
The guard from Memphis was unstoppable with 41 points, 10 rebound, two steals, two assists, and two blocks while connecting on six of his seven three-point attempts. It wasn't a one-man effort, as both Jaren Jackson Jr. and Desmond Bane scored 15 points.
It appeared as if the Lakers were going to give their fans a win when they jumped out to a double-digit lead in the first quarter and had a five-point lead heading into the fourth quarter.
The Los Angeles Clippers were held to just 16 points in the final 12 minutes of the game. In the final seconds of the game, James had a particularly poor turnover, and the team was able to get the win on the free-throw line.
Despite the turnover, James finished with 37 points, 13 rebound, seven assists, two blocks and two steals while carrying much of the offensive responsibilities on his shoulders. The two All-Stars continue to be in primary roles as they look to make up for the absence of Anthony Davis.
The formula isn't turning into wins as the Lakers are 1-6 in their last seven games and have a 17-19 overall record.
If they are unable to climb up to the top six spots in the Western Conference, they will be in the play-in tournament.
If Los Angeles is eliminated from the playoffs in the early going, Morant tells me that the Grizzlies won't be too upset.
