NBA
SPEC
2026-01-04 · Morning Edition
WIN
Grizzlies vs. Lakers
Lakers -3.5
ANALYSIS
The Lakers hold a 0.575 market edge and 18th-ranked pace to stifle Memphis's transition game, mirroring their 128-121 victory just 48 hours ago where Luka Doncic and LeBron James combined for 65 points. With Ja Morant (calf) downgraded to questionable and the Grizzlies missing eight rotation players, L.A. is perfectly positioned to leverage their 11-0 clutch record and home-court momentum. We expect the Lakers' superior star power and interior control to secure the cover against a sliding Memphis squad that has lost five of their last seven.
Key Data
Market Spread Edge: 0.575, Lakers Pace Rank: 18th
OUTCOME
Lakers 120 - Grizzlies 114
Memphis controlled the first half behind Ja Morant's playmaking, but the Lakers adjusted their defensive intensity at the break, holding Memphis to just 22 points in the third quarter. The Lakers' transition offense flourished as Memphis shooters regressed to the mean, allowing Los Angeles to turn a 12-point deficit into a comfortable 6-point cover.
FULL BREAKDOWN
Listen to the Morning Episode →
Full analysis and discussion of this pick in the 2026-01-04 morning edition.