MEMPHIS >> Within seconds, Kobe Bryant sprinted from the perimeter to the paint before converting on a reverse layup. He drove past his defender for an open look at the basket. He converted on a finger roll on another play and leaped off the floor quickly after taking a fall.
If only Bryant could maintain that offensive efficiency after one quarter. If only the Lakers could provide more on offense. If only the Lakers could compensate their offensive shortcomings with some defensive stops.
Instead, the Lakers suffered a 112-96 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies on Sunday at FedEx Forum for all the familiar reasons.