Overview
- Luka Doncic came back from a three-game absence with a sprained left finger and left leg contusion to post 44 points, 12 rebounds and 6 assists in a 117-112 road win at Memphis.
- The matchup was the group-stage opener of the NBA Cup for both teams, and Los Angeles overturned a 14-point halftime deficit to seal it in the fourth quarter.
- With 44 against the Grizzlies after 43 and 49 in his first two outings, Doncic tied Wilt Chamberlain as the only players to open a season with three straight 40-point games.
- LeBron James did not play due to right-side sciatica, and coach JJ Redick has indicated his return is not expected until mid-November.
- Austin Reaves scored 21 for the Lakers, and Doncic recorded his 11th consecutive game of at least 25 points against Memphis.