Jeremy Lin has been playing great basketball for Byron Scott’s Lakers since the All-Star break, hitting a game-high 23 points (with 8 assists) against Charlotte on Tuesday. But Lin’s resurgence was on pause in a tough loss in Memphis on Friday night. The playoff-bound Grizzlies (44-17) were ultimately too strong for the Lakers (16-45)–as Memphis played its signature smothering defense at the end. The Lakers gave away an 87-84 lead with three minutes to go. Had Lin continued his strong play, Lakers would have had a chance.
Rookie Jordan Clarkson was the most effective Laker, going 12-of-18 for 25 points in the 97-90 loss. Forward Ed Davis also played well, going 5-of-5 for 10 points. Lin got 26 minutes, but managed only 4 points on 1-of-5 shooting. (He had 4 boards and 3 assists.) Zach Randolph and Mark Gasol led the Grizzlies.
