Interesting that backup Shannon Brown was the first guard off the bench for the third consecutive game. He replaced Derek Fisher, who is getting more rest as the Lakers count the days until the regular season ends and the playoffs begin. Brown is bulkier and faster than Jordan Farmar and perhaps more able to stay in front of a big point guard like Deron Williams of the Utah Jazz, who are possible first-round playoff opponents.

“We’re really watching how he’s moving, reacting, initiating the offense,” Lakers coach Phil Jackson said when asked about Brown after tonight’s 92-75 victory over the Memphis Grizzlies. “Jordan’s much more comfortable doing the things we do out there on the floor (in the triangle offense). We obviously want him to play at a high level.

“But with bigger guards, muscular guards, there’s a real need or potential for Shannon to help us out there in the playoffs as he progresses. He’s still got to make some steps forward, but tonight was another example of things going well for him and the people he plays with, and that’s what you look for as a coach.”

Brown had three points, three rebounds and two assists in almost 17 minutes tonight against the Grizzlies. Fisher played almost 18 minutes, scoring four points on 2-for-9 shooting. Farmar played a little more than 13 minutes, scoring two points.