Here is what you need to know before the Lakers take on the Memphis Grizzlies.
1) B.I. is looking to make it three straight
Brandon Ingram stormed out of the All-Star Break, dropping 27 points in Thursday’s win over Houston before following up with 29 in Saturday’s loss to New Orleans.
Ingram has been excellent attacking off the dribble, particularly in this two-game span. By taking it straight to the defense, he has also earned himself plenty of trips to the line, hitting 17-of-23 on free throws over those last two.
But Ingram’s finishing has been on point all year. He’s shooting 62.5 percent in the restricted area and 47.6 percent in the non-restricted paint.
2) History is on LeBron’s doorstep
With just one dime against the Grizzlies, LeBron James will surpass Andre Miller (8,524) for the 10th-most assists in NBA history.
Arguably the greatest player to ever combine scoring and passing, James is already fifth all-time in career points and will become the only player among the top 10 for both.
James’ playmaking has been on another level recently. In fact, his entire game has elevated.
Since returning from injury seven games ago, LeBron has averaged a triple-double, putting up 24.6 points, 10.4 rebounds and 10.4 assists per night.
3) Lakers need to take advantage of every opportunity
After falling in New Orleans, the Lakers have 23 games to make up a three-game difference in the Western Conference playoff race.
So while Memphis may rank second-from-the-bottom in the West, L.A. has to play at full capacity to avoid giving up any more crucial ground.
The Grizzlies’ roster has turned over since last facing the Lakers in December, with eight new players on the team and franchise icon Marc Gasol dealt to Toronto.
Memphis still features Mike Conley’s 20 points per game and reliable playmaking. Plus it has added Jonas Valanciunas, who has been a workhorse in the post this season.
Injury Report
Lakers: Mike Muscala (right ankle sprain) is probable. Lonzo Ball (left ankle sprain) is out. Isaac Bonga and Johnathan Williams are on G League assignment.
Grizzlies: Mike Conley (left knee soreness) is probable. Jaren Jackson Jr. (right deep thigh bruise), Kyle Anderson (right shoulder soreness) and Dillon Brooks (right toe injury) are out.
Tip-Off: 5 p.m. PT
TV: Spectrum SportsNet
Radio: 710 ESPN and 1330 KWKW
Unis: Purple Statement
Location: FedExForum — Memphis, Tennessee