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Lakers Lose Back-to-Back Games in Vegas

January 20, 2023; Los Angeles, California, USA; Los Angeles Lakers guard Max Christie (10) shoots three point basket against the Memphis Grizzlies during the first half at Crypto.com Arena. Mandatory Credit: Gary A. Vasquez-USA TODAY Sports

The Los Angeles Lakers were stunned by the Memphis Grizzlies on Friday, losing 100-69. Los Angeles needed to win to stay in contention for the Summer League semifinals. However, the Grizzlies had a better team performance and took advantage of the young Lakers’ mistakes. The team trailed by 31 points and had their lowest-scoring game of the summer.

Lakers Lose Back-to-Back Games in Vegas

Max Christie’s Absence

Starting guard Max Christie sat out due to a minor hip injury. On Thursday, the team announced his run in Summer League was likely over. He averaged 19.8 points per game on 49.2% shooting from the field and 55% from three-point range, including 5.8 rebounds and 3.8 assists across five games. He played two matches in the California Classic and three in the Las Vegas Summer League.

“It could always change. I want to play as many games as possible, but a lot of the time it’s not necessarily up to me. If management decides they want to shut me down then we can do that. If not, I always want to keep playing.

“As long as my body’s holding up well and we’re winning games, why not? At the end of the day, I want to play.”

Christie was a key contributor to the Lakers’ success this summer. His absence was felt in their last game against the Grizzlies because of his scoring and ability to facilitate the offense. During his time on the court, he proved to be an explosive scorer and playmaker, giving fans a glimpse of his potential. His strong performance is a testament to what he is capable of doing in the Lakers rotation.

Cole Swider’s Impact

Cole Swider has proven to be an effective shooter this summer. He has showcased his mid-range pull-up skills, his knack for getting to the rim, and his ability to knock down outside jumpers. His improvement is a product of the G League player development system. He has evolved from a raw prospect to one with high potential. This transformation has been instrumental in the team’s success this summer. Swider is looking to earn minutes among the Lakers rotation, but he has tough competition for the spot. He must continue to work hard and show his capabilities to earn minutes.

L.J. Figueroa

Forward L.J. Figueroa was another player who stood out against the Grizzlies, scoring 15 points on 7-10 shooting from the field. Figueroa was moved from the bench to the starting lineup to provide a spark for Los Angeles. His strong performance helped the team despite the loss. One play that stood out was Figueroa’s putback dunk that got Lakers fans out of their seats. The dunk highlighted his athleticism and ability to make an impact on the court.

After the game, the 25-year-old said, “The guys was just talking about it in the locker room. I told them it wasn’t my best dunk but I had just seen it and it might be my best dunk.”

Last season Figueroa played for the South Bay Lakers in the G League, averaging 13 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.7 assists, 1.3 steals, 0.4 blocks, and 1 turnover in 23 games and 13 starts. He may not be an All-Star or superstar in the making, but he has the potential to be a valuable role player in the league. Figueroa brings a lot of energy and hustle to the court and is a great defender. He has the tools to become a rotational player, but it’s up to him to put in the work to get there.

Lakers Summer League Review

Los Angeles started Summer League off on the wrong foot, going winless in the California Classic. However, they made the right adjustments amid adversity to keep up with the competition and win back-to-back games in Vegas. Unfortunately, the young Lakers fell back into old habits and lost the following two games. Despite the losses, the team has shown resilience and spirit, and they will look to close out the Las Vegas Summer League vs the Los Angeles Clippers on July 16 at 7 p.m. PT.

What’s Next for LA?

After free agency, the Lakers already have a stacked roster but are looking to add another big to complement Anthony Davis and newly acquired free agent Jaxson Hayes. Los Angeles needs a veteran center to help support the young core and provide a defensive presence in the paint. Rob Pelinka is hoping to find the perfect fit to round out their championship-contending roster.

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