Lakers 115 - 98 Grizzlies
Final
  for this game

Gasol returns to Memphis as Lakers visit Grizzlies

Jan 31, 2009 - 11:17 AM LA Lakers (37-9) at Memphis (11-34) 8:00 p.m. EST

MEMPHIS, Tennessee (Ticker) -- For the second time since last season's blockbuster midseason trade, Pau Gasol will take the floor on his former home court, against his former team.

Gasol, who was named an All-Star for the second time this week, will lead the Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday as they visit the Memphis Grizzlies.

Gasol spent the first 6 1/2 seasons of his NBA career with the Grizzlies before the Lakers acquired him in a February 1, 2008 trade - almost a year to the day of Saturday's tilt. He has flourished in Los Angeles, averaging 17.3 points and 9.0 boards this season while helping to lead the Lakers back to the top of the Western Conference.

His old team, on the other hand, has fallen on difficult times. The Grizzlies have dropped 11 in a row, with their only win this month coming on January 4 against the Dallas Mavericks. Rookie O.J. Mayo and third-year swingman Rudy Gay have both emerged as legitimate scoring threats, but the team has found little offense elsewhere.

Memphis was much more competitive the last time it faced Los Angeles, holding a lead into the fourth quarter before the Lakers stormed back for a 105-96 victory. Gasol registered 15 points, seven rebounds and six assists in the victory, but it was Kobe Bryant who led the way with 36 points.






Related News