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This means that Brandon Clarke, who has been playing quite well himself as of late, must step up once again defensively. Forcing the Lakers into taking tough jumpers instead of consistently getting the rim would be a positive development for Memphis. If they make those shots, you can live it while hoping they run into a bit of a cold stretch at some point in the game. Though Memphis has beat the Lakers without him in the recent past, he makes life so much easier for the rest of the Grizzlies defense.

Yet Memphis should be better prepared for life without him than they were earlier this season. While Lebron obviously has been the biggest reason for the Lakers recent success, Malik Monk has been outstanding over the past several games, emerging as one of the most productive shooters in the league since the holiday season.

He his attempting eight threes a game. Much like Desmond Bane has done for the Grizzlies, Monk has allowed the Lakers to benefit from offensive balance from distance to compliment their success near the basket.

As a result, the Grizzlies must force someone else other than Monk to step up and support James. While players such as Carmelo Anthony or Avery Bradley are capable of that, making life tough for Monk to get good looks should be a priority for the Grizzlies. Even though the Lakers are without Anthony Davis, it should be no surprise they have finally figured out how to play winning basketball.

With the Lakers being more than capable of continuing to surge in the second half of the season, that tiebreaker gives Memphis an extra layer of advantage if the standings were to become close once again.

The Grizzlies simply must prioritize finding the right shots consistently on offense, and protecting the paint on defense. Being aware of where Monk is at all times is critical. Read full article. January 1, , AM. In this article:. More content below. Los Angeles Lakers. Live Today Tomorrow vs - -.

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