LA Lakers downed Memphis today 89-81, thanks to a solid effort by star Miller. The game lived up to its hype, with both teams having their moments but neither side able to dominate for any extended length of time. Said Miller after the game, "This one could have easily gone either way. We're just glad that we came out with the win." Coach Andreas Helmle echoed the sentiments, saying "Memphis came out strong and ready to play, and we knew from the start that it would be a battle out there. Probably if we played them 10 times, both sides would get five wins. But we got the win today, and that's what counts."

Memphis players were disappointed after the game, and coach Bob had his hands full keeping their spirits up. "They know they played their hearts out today, and that it wasn't enough. That's a tough feeling. Especially for Smith, who had one heck of a game but couldn't carry the whole team on his shoulders."

LA Lakers was led by Miller (19 points, 18 boards, 0 assists, a block), Keeney (18 points, 9 boards, 5 assists), Washington (9 points, 3 steals, a block). Memphis was led by Smith (23 points, 2 steals), Maxwell (22 points, 1 assists, a steal, a block), Atkins (14 points, 6 boards, 0 assists, a block).

LA Lakers jump to 28-15 and 17-7 at home with this win. They remain at #1 in the Pacific and remain at #3 overall in the Western Conference. Memphis are now 19-22. They remain at #5 in the Southwest and remain at #14 overall in the Western Conference.

box score LA Lakers* roster Memphis roster