Led by a balanced scoring attack and stifling defense, the Lakers raced out to an early 14-2 in the opening minutes of Game 3 against Memphis on Saturday night.
As it turned out, that hot start only continued for the remainder of the first quarter. By the end of the first 12 minutes, Los Angeles had already built a 35–9.
The 26-point margin matched the largest lead after a first quarter in NBA postseason history.
Potentially motivated by the trash talk of Dillon Brooks, LeBron James and the Lakers were clearly out to send a message. Prior to tip-off, James and Brooks were seen having a pregame discussion.
After the results of the opening quarter, it’s fair to say James was determined to let his team’s play do the talking in response to the talkative Brooks.
LeBron and Dillon Brooks with a pregame discussion 👀
— Sports Illustrated (@SInow) April 23, 2023
(via @ActionNetworkHQ) pic.twitter.com/2wAPSBO68h
Memphis was pummeled in the first half, as the Lakers head into halftime with a decisive 53-37 advantage.
