While the Denver Nuggets and Boston Celtics often draw the spotlight as the Los Angeles Lakers’ primary rivals, an underrated rivalry has been brewing with the Memphis Grizzlies. This tension dates back to the 2022-23 NBA playoffs when the two teams faced off in a heated first-round series.
Last season, injuries kept Memphis star Ja Morant off the court for much of the year, cooling the rivalry. However, this season, the sparks have reignited. In their first matchup of the 2023-24 season, the Grizzlies claimed a decisive 131-114 victory, with Morant seizing the
opportunity to take a jab at LeBron James and the Lakers. Morant’s comments implied he was stepping into the role of the league’s dominant figure, dismissing the influence of James, who remains active in the league.
Lakers rookie guard Dalton Knecht didn’t take kindly to the remarks. When the two teams faced off again on November 13, Knecht made it clear he was ready to stand his ground. The Lakers emerged victorious in the rematch, securing a hard-fought 128-123 win.
Knecht, known for his competitive edge, didn’t shy away from addressing the situation post-game. According to ESPN’s Dave McMenamin, Knecht was particularly offended by Morant’s suggestion that he was “the new king around here” while LeBron James, a legendary figure in the NBA, still commands respect on the court. Knecht delivered a sharp message, underscoring that the Lakers won’t tolerate disrespect toward their team or its leader.
The budding rivalry adds another layer of excitement to the Lakers’ season as Knecht establishes himself as a fierce competitor willing to defend his team’s honor.
