The Los Angeles Lakers dominated the Memphis Grizzlies in their first-round playoff series, clinching a playoff series in their own arena for the first time since 2012. LeBron James and Anthony Davis led the team to an impressive 125-85 victory in Game 6, with Davis demonstrating his commanding defensive presence while Russell showcased his slick offensive skills with five 3-pointers. The Lakers won all three of their home games in the series, and the final victory was a scary demonstration of their capabilities when James and Davis are both healthy alongside their full supporting cast. They now look ahead to their next series on the road against the winner of Sunday’s Game 7 between Sacramento and defending champion Golden State. Lakers coach Darvin Ham emphasized the importance of the team being the best versions of themselves, while Memphis Grizzlies coach Taylor Jenkins admitted they did not play their best basketball in the series. Despite early trash talk from Dillon Brooks, who dismissed James as “old” after Game 2, the talking in the media was no match for the Lakers’ impressive performance. The 86-year-old superfan Jack Nicholson watched his beloved team for the first time since October 2021, returning to his usual seats alongside his son. The Lakers’ most famous fan got a huge ovation from his fellow supporters whenever his face appeared on the scoreboard.
