Los Angeles Lakers took on Memphis Grizzlies for Game 3 of the playoffs in front of their home crowd at the crypto arena. They posted a record first-quarter lead of 35 against 9. While Ja Morant’s explosive 45-point game did give Memphis an edge, the purple and gold brigade held their nerves till the very end to take a 2-1 lead in the playoff series.
However, Grizzlies’ uncanny plays on the court remained the talk of the town. They were cited for a number of fouls throughout the game, including a hard foul on LeBron James, which led to the controversial ejection of Dillon Brooks. Naturally, the fans and Lakers players themselves called out the Memphis for their dirty gameplay. Rui Hachimura was one among the many who took a strong stand against these dangerous plays.
Rui Hachimura Slams Memphis Grizzlies For Dirty Tactics
Game 3 of the playoff series between the Lakers and the Grizzlies was filled with high-end drama. Right from Dillon Brooks‘ ejection to Ja Morants’ aggressive attacking play, the game had it all. While the Lakers took home a 111-101 victory, the players were not pleased with the way the game panned out. The Grizzlies’ physicality on the court was widely criticized by fans and analysts alike. Moreover, Lakers forward Rui Hachimura, in particular, took offense to it and called the Grizzlies out publically.
Hachimura, who scored 16 points and 5 rebounds, was fouled from behind twice by John Konchar and then by David Roddy. The move remained dangerous as it could have led to a grave injury to Hachimura. After the game, the Lakers forward termed Grizzlies’ defensive tactics as “dirty.” He said the push he received from behind made him lose his balance during the run. Moreover, he was pissed after being pulled from behind the second time. Hence, Rui said that while playing against Memphis, one has to stay vigilant as they tend to play such dirty basketball. Rui also confronted the opposition, reminding them that these kinds of tactics are not allowed in professional basketball.
Dillon Brooks Ejected In A High Voltage Playoff Game Against The Lakers
Grizzlies forward Dillon Brooks heated up the matchup against the Lakers with aggressive play. However, he crossed the line when he fouled on LeBron James by hitting on his groin area. James dropped to the floor, whining in pain. The referees, after multiple checks, ejected the Grizzlies forward for the rest of the play. While Brooks pleaded innocence, the match officials had none of it and stayed firm on their decision.
Despite ejection, Brook remains unlikely to face any further action. The NBA, after a thorough investigation, has decided not to take the matter any further. They bailed Dillon with an official warning. Hence, the forward is all clear to take part in game 4 against the Lakers on Monday. The Los Angeles Lakers are 2-0 in the seven-game series. Hence, pressure is on the Memphis Grizzlies to take this win before it’s too late.
