Memphis Grizzlies guard Ja Morant didn’t sound thrilled after Friday’s 117–112 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers , and it wasn’t about his health. Per beat reporter Damichael Cole, Morant repeatedly deflected postgame questions to the coaching staff and said he felt fine physically. It matched the vibe of a night that started fast for Memphis and then veered off course in the second half.

On the floor, the numbers tell the story. ESPN’s box score shows the Grizzlies blitzed the second quarter 42–24, then got outscored 62–43 after halftime as Luka Doncic took over. Doncic returned from a three-game absence and put up 44 points, 12 rebounds, and six assists to swing the game back to Los Angeles. Austin Reaves added 21, and the Lakers closed with a clean 28–21 fourth quarter.

Memphis ha

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