30 Facts About Lakers Vs. Memphis Grizzlies

Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies: A Storied Rivalry

The Lakers and the Memphis Grizzlies have faced off numerous times, creating memorable moments and intense matchups. Here are some intriguing facts about their rivalry.

1. The Lakers and Grizzlies first played against each other on November 10, 1995, when the Grizzlies were still based in Vancouver.

2. The Lakers have won the majority of their matchups against the Grizzlies, showcasing their dominance over the years.

3. Kobe Bryant scored a career-high 81 points against the Toronto Raptors, but his highest against the Grizzlies was 56 points in a game on January 14, 2002.

4. The Grizzlies' first win against the Lakers came on December 29, 1996, breaking a long losing streak.

5. Pau Gasol, a key player for the Lakers, was originally drafted by the Grizzlies in 2001 and later traded to the Lakers in 2008.

6. The Lakers and Grizzlies have met in the playoffs only once, during the 2021-2022 season, where the Lakers emerged victorious.

7. The Grizzlies' longest winning streak against the Lakers is four games, achieved during the 2012-2013 season.

8. Shaquille O'Neal, one of the Lakers' legends, scored his career-high of 61 points against the Grizzlies on March 6, 2000.

9. The Grizzlies moved from Vancouver to Memphis in 2001, changing the dynamics of their matchups with the Lakers.

10. The Lakers' largest margin of victory against the Grizzlies was 33 points, achieved on January 9, 2008.

Memorable Moments and Players

Certain games and players have left a lasting impact on the Lakers vs. Grizzlies rivalry. Here are some standout moments and individuals.

11. In 2005, the Grizzlies' Mike Miller scored 30 points off the bench to lead his team to a victory over the Lakers.

12. Marc Gasol, Pau Gasol's younger brother, played for the Grizzlies and faced off against his sibling in several memorable games.

13. In 2013, the Lakers' Dwight Howard had a dominant performance with 14 points, 15 rebounds, and 5 blocks against the Grizzlies.

14. The Grizzlies' Zach Randolph had a standout game in 2011, scoring 34 points and grabbing 16 rebounds against the Lakers.

15. In 2018, the Lakers' rookie Kyle Kuzma scored a career-high 38 points in a game against the Grizzlies.

16. The Grizzlies' Ja Morant, known for his explosive athleticism, had a memorable 27-point game against the Lakers in 2020.

17. In 2004, the Lakers' Gary Payton hit a game-winning shot against the Grizzlies, showcasing his clutch abilities.

18. The Grizzlies' Tony Allen, known for his defensive prowess, often guarded Kobe Bryant, creating intense matchups.

19. In 2016, the Lakers' D'Angelo Russell scored 27 points and hit a game-winning three-pointer against the Grizzlies.

20. The Grizzlies' Shane Battier was known for his defensive efforts against the Lakers, often guarding their star players.

Records and Statistics

The rivalry between the Lakers and Grizzlies has produced some impressive records and statistics. Here are a few notable ones.

21. The Lakers hold the record for the most points scored in a single game against the Grizzlies, with 133 points on March 22, 2008.

22. The Grizzlies' highest-scoring game against the Lakers was 128 points, achieved on January 23, 2019.

23. The Lakers' Kobe Bryant holds the record for the most points scored by a single player in a game against the Grizzlies, with 56 points.

24. The Grizzlies' Marc Gasol holds the record for the most rebounds in a game against the Lakers, with 22 rebounds on February 26, 2014.

25. The Lakers' Magic Johnson holds the record for the most assists in a game against the Grizzlies, with 20 assists on January 15, 1996.

26. The Grizzlies' Mike Conley holds the record for the most steals in a game against the Lakers, with 7 steals on March 12, 2017.

27. The Lakers' Kareem Abdul-Jabbar holds the record for the most blocks in a game against the Grizzlies, with 8 blocks on February 18, 1984.

28. The Grizzlies' Pau Gasol holds the record for the most points scored by a Grizzlies player in a game against the Lakers, with 44 points on March 28, 2006.

29. The Lakers' LeBron James had a triple-double against the Grizzlies on February 25, 2020, with 32 points, 10 rebounds, and 11 assists.

30. The Grizzlies' Ja Morant recorded his first triple-double against the Lakers on February 12, 2021, with 27 points, 10 rebounds, and 10 assists.

The Final Buzzer

The Lakers vs. Memphis Grizzlies rivalry is packed with thrilling moments and memorable highlights. From Kobe Bryant's legendary performances to the Grizzlies' rise as a formidable opponent, this matchup never disappoints. Fans have witnessed buzzer-beaters, intense playoff battles, and record-breaking games that have cemented this rivalry in NBA history.

Both teams have their unique strengths and star players, making each game a must-watch event. Whether you're a die-hard Lakers fan or rooting for the Grizzlies, the excitement and passion surrounding these games are undeniable.

So, next time these two teams face off, remember the rich history and epic battles that have shaped this rivalry. Grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the show because when the Lakers and Grizzlies clash, it's always a spectacle.