Clips Nation - NBA Playoffs Round 1 Game 2 Clippers-Grizzlies game coverageWhat it do babyyyhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47967/clipsnation_fave.png2013-04-23T00:45:37-07:00http://www.clipsnation.com/rss/stream/40188692013-04-23T00:45:37-07:002013-04-23T00:45:37-07:00Are Kenny and Charles even watching?
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<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/OQUcUWbbnxdxEnKHYZmbB1B78x4=/104x32:968x608/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/11988097/20120226_ajw_sv7_407.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
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<p>To listen to Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley in the TNT studio you'd think the Clippers were behind 0-2 in their playoff series with the Grizzlies instead of up 2-0.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Los Angeles Clippers</a> beat the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Memphis Grizzlies</a> Monday night by a score of 93-91, giving the Clippers a commanding 2-0 win in their first round series. The Clippers scored 112 points in the first game, and so have averaged 102.5 points per game against by far the best defense in the Western Conference, a team that gave up an average of 89 points per game during the season.</p>
<p>So naturally TNT studio analysts Kenny Smith and Charles Barkley were falling all over themselves to talk about how bad the Clippers' offense is at halftime and after the game.</p>
<p>Wait, what?</p>
<p>The Clippers, who have scored a total of 23 fast break points in the two games, fewer than the Grizzlies, apparently have, according to Barkley, "The worst half court offense in the history of the world." For his part, Smith chose to show two <span>Jamal Crawford</span> highlights during his halftime segment to demonstrate how bad the half court offense is. See? See there? It's just Jamal dribbling and shooting. Isn't that terrible? Never mind that the ball went in. And never mind that <span>Chris Paul</span> was on the bench at the time. And never mind that anyone can show two highlights that support any position they wish to take. </p>
<p>Smith and Barkley have become caricatures, parodies of themselves at this point. Barkley in particular has spent so much time talking up the Grizzlies while criticizing the Clippers this season, he can't stop doing it even with the Clippers up 2-0 in the series, having beaten Memphis six times in seven meetings. In the postgame show of a game in which Chris Paul scored the final eight points, hit the game winner, and gave his team a 2-0 lead over his beloved Grizzlies, Barkley somehow managed to work in his opinion that <span>Tony Parker</span> is the best point guard in the NBA. That's not easy -- and more than a little douche-y, I might add. "Let's bring in Jamal Crawford via Cisco Telepresence now -- Good win, Jamal. Do you agree that Tony Parker is the best point guard in the NBA?"</p>
<p>At one point while criticizing the Clippers half court offense, Barkley actually said that the Clippers wouldn't be able to just give the ball to Paul against a good team. Let that sink in for a minute. Do you see the irony here? (A) Barkley has been singing Memphis' praises all season, grouping them with the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.poundingtherock.com/">Spurs</a> and the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.welcometoloudcity.com/">Thunder</a> as one of the three best teams in the West. Until that moment, I was under the impression that Barkley thought Memphis <i>was</i> a good team. (B) Barkley was criticizing L.A.'s <i>offense</i>. Although I may not generally agree with Barkley about exactly how good Memphis is overall, their defense is undeniably good -- statistically, empirically, obviously good -- the best in the Western conference in fact. Quite the opposite of Barkley's assertion, things will actually get EASIER for the Clippers offense against any other opponent. </p>
<p>I can't wait to hear what these guys say when the Clippers eliminate the Grizzlies. I already know the gist. There will be nothing in the way of praise for the Clippers, but a whole lot about how they're going to get killed by the Thunder.</p>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/23/4255858/are-kenny-and-charles-even-watchingSteve Perrin2013-04-23T00:09:52-07:002013-04-23T00:09:52-07:00Clippers rip out Grizzlies hearts, 93-91
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<figcaption>USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Memphis fought back from a 12 point deficit in the fourth quarter to tie the game in the final seconds, but Chris Paul hit the game winner with a tenth of a second remaining to dash their hopes of evening the series.</p> <p>Which is more demoralizing? To lose by 20 points, or to be tied in the final seconds and lose at the buzzer? We don't have to guess about the answer -- we can just ask the members of the Memphis Grizzlies, since they've experienced both in falling into an 0-2 hole in their playoff series against the Los Angeles Clippers.</p>
<p>Unlike the first game, the Clippers didn't lead from wire-to-wire in this one. In fact, the Grizzlies came out smoking hot in the first quarter, made 8-10 to start the game, and took an early lead. But even with their hot start, the Clippers fought back to tie the game at 26 at the end of the period. Moreover, the pace of the game to that point seemed to favor the Clippers. Yes, the Grizzlies were making shots, but did they really want to run with the Clippers?</p>
<p>From the second quarter forward, the Clippers seemed to be more or less in control of the game. They'd stretch the lead out to six or eight, but the Grizzlies would reel them back. Still, it seemed as if the Clippers were in charge the entire second half, even stretching the lead to 12 early in the fourth quarter, so it was definitely nervous time when the Grizzlies tied the game on a <span>Darrell Arthur</span> three point play with 97 seconds remaining. The worst case scenario for the Clippers pretty much would have been to dominate Game 1, but let the Grizzlies steal Game 2 -- the exact scenario that seemed to be playing out.</p>
<p>Enter <span>Chris Paul</span>.</p>
<p>The Clippers second unit had been splendid to open the fourth, stretching the team's four point lead out to a dozen with eight straight. Unfortunately, they went cold at that point. <span>Tony Allen</span> clamped down on <span>Jamal Crawford</span>, the rest of the reserves struggled to get clean looks, and all told the Clippers missed eight of nine shots over the next six minutes, a drought that continued even after Paul and <span>Blake Griffin</span> had re-entered the contest.</p>
<p>Fortunately, after missing his first two shots after coming back in, Paul made four of his last five to end the game, including the game winner which went through the net with 0.1 seconds left on the clock. The final shot was anything but easy. The Grizzlies assigned Tony Allen to ball for the final few possessions, and Allen was harassing Paul throughout his move. But as he does so well, Paul held Allen off, elevated, and freed his right hand for a floating 10 foot bank shot. Ball game.</p>
<p>The Grizzlies are surely devastated at this point, wondering what they have to do to overcome their nemesis. I pointed out in the preview that the Grizzlies best chance in this series is to stick with their game plan, as none of the contingencies seem to favor them, and that's exactly what Coach <span>Lionel Hollins</span> did tonight. <span>Mike Conley</span> played 44 minutes, <span>Marc Gasol</span> almost as many, resting 49 and 75 seconds respectively in the second half. Of the Memphis starters, only <span>Zach Randolph</span> played fewer than 38 minutes, and he only got some rest because of foul trouble. In Game 1 Tony Allen played 25 minutes compared to 30 for <span>Jerryd Bayless</span>. In Game 2, it was Allen 39 and Bayless just nine. Of course, barring fatigue becoming a major factor, that's more or less the only option Hollins has. If Memphis is counting on Bayless and <span>Keyon Dooling</span> to be major factors, the series is already over.</p>
<p>For the Clippers, Griffin and Crawford carried them early and Paul closed the deal. Griffin had 13 first quarter points, scoring in a variety of ways. Crawford came in and made his first six shots. They finished with 21 and 15 respectively to join Paul, with his team high 24, as the only Clippers in double figures. Paul and Griffin posted strangely complementary stats as the sometimes do -- Griffin finished with 21 points, eight rebounds and four assists while Paul had 24 points, nine assists and four rebounds.</p>
<p>The Clippers certainly didn't dominate the rebounding battle the way they did in Game 1, but they did win the battle of the glass, and against a great rebounding team like the Grizzlies that's a major accomplishment in and of itself. After grabbing just four offensive rebounds in the first game, the Grizzlies managed just eight in this one -- better, but still far below their season average.</p>
<p>Where Memphis did improve significantly this game was in their starting backcourt. Conley and Allen, hampered with foul trouble on Saturday, were limited in both playing time and effectiveness in Game 1, but in Game 2 Conley stepped up with 28 points and nine assists while Allen had 16 points and 10 rebounds. Conley's points and both Allen's points and rebounds were all career playoff highs. That's a tough loss to take, when the members of your starting backcourt post career highs and you still lose.</p>
<p>In the big picture, the Clippers have now won six of the last seven meetings with the Grizzlies, including three straight in Memphis, and they need just two more wins in the next five to defeat the Grizzlies for the second year in a row. After winning their final seven regular season games, they're now on a nine game winning streak, which actually ranks as the third longest in franchise history and second longest in Clippers history. That is to say, the two longest winning streaks in Clippers history have each occurred this season, and one of them is active.</p>
<p>Game 3 will take place on Thursday in Memphis where the Clippers clearly have plenty of confidence. That game becomes a must win for the Grizzlies since no team has ever come back from a 3-0 playoff deficit. Chris Paul dashed the Grizzlies hopes of winning Game 2 -- it's time to do the same to their hopes of winning the series.</p>
<p>For the Memphis perspective visit <a href="http://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzly Bear Blues</a>.</p>
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<table class="box-score">
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<th class="td-left"> <span>Final - 4.22.2013 </span> </th> <th>1</th> <th>2</th> <th>3</th> <th>4</th> <th>Total</th>
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<td class="td-name"><span class="loss"> <a href="https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Memphis Grizzlies</a> </span></td>
<td>26</td>
<td>18</td>
<td>27</td>
<td>20</td>
<td class="highlight">91</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td class="td-name"><span class="win"> <a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Los Angeles Clippers</a> </span></td>
<td>26</td>
<td>24</td>
<td>25</td>
<td>18</td>
<td class="highlight">93</td>
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</tbody>
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<p class="foot clearfix"><span class="link-more"><span>Complete Coverage ></span></span></p>
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https://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/23/4255748/clippers-rip-out-grizzlies-hearts-93-91Steve Perrin2013-04-22T21:44:43-07:002013-04-22T21:44:43-07:00Game 2 4th Quarter Thread
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<figcaption>Robert Hanashiro-USA TODAY</figcaption>
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<p>It's been a long time since I posted something, but the Clipper Nation needs me...</p>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/22/4255604/clippers-grizzlies-game-2-4th-quarter-threadLucas Hann2013-04-22T19:15:05-07:002013-04-22T19:15:05-07:00Round 1 Game 2 Clippers-Grizzlies open thread
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<figcaption>Harry How</figcaption>
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<p>Saturday night was loads of fun -- will tonight be as much fun? Or will the Grizzlies be able to control the tempo and hit the boards the way they do when they're at their best?</p> <table align="center" cellpadding="5" border="1" cellspacing="5" class="sbnu-legacy-content-table"><tbody>
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<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center">2013 NBA Playoffs - First Round</th>
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<td width="240"><center><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/472353/bvv028jd1hhr8ee8ii7a0fg4i_medium.gif" alt="Bvv028jd1hhr8ee8ii7a0fg4i_medium"></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center">vs</th>
<td width="240"><center> <a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/502994/793.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/502994/793_medium.gif" class="photo" alt="793_medium"></a> <br id="1351645292796">
</center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240"><center><b>56-26</b></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center"><br></th>
<td width="240"><center><b>56-26</b></center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 2 - April 22nd, 2013, 7:30 PM</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Prime Ticket, TNT, KFWB 980 AM, KWW 1330 AM<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><a href="http://www.tiqiq.com/nba/los-angeles-clippers-tickets?pubid=1011034" target="_blank"><b>Buy Clippers Tickets</b></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center">Series Schedule<br>
</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b><a href="https://www.clipsnation.com/" class="sbn-auto-link">Clippers</a> lead series 1-0</b></td>
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<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center">
<b>Game 1 - Sat April 20 in Los Angeles, </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/20/4248104/clippers-bury-grizzlies-in-game-1-112-91"><b>Clippers 112, Grizzlies 91</b></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 2 - Mon April 22, 7:30 p.m., Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 3 - Thu April 25, 6:30 p.m., Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 4 - Sat April 27, 1:30 p.m., Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 5 * Tue April 30, Time TBD, Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 6 * Fri May 3, Time TBD, Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 7 * Sun May 5, Time TBD, Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center">* if necessary</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Probable Starters</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Chris Paul</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Mike Conley</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Chauncey Billups</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Tony Allen</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Caron Butler</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Tayshaun Prince</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><span><b>Blake Griffin</b></span></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Zach Randolph</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><span><b>DeAndre Jordan</b></span></td>
<th width="20" align="center">C</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Marc Gasol</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Key Reserves</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Eric Bledsoe</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Keyon Dooling</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Jamal Crawford</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Jerryd Bayless</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Matt Barnes</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Quincy Pondexter</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Lamar Odom</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Darrell Arthur</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Ryan Hollins</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">C</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Ed Davis</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Regular Season Advanced Stats</b></th>
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<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">91.1 (19th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">Pace</th>
<td width="240"><b>88.4 (30th of 30)</b></td>
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<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">110.6 (4th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">ORtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>104.9 (17th of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">103.6 (8th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">DRtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>100.3 (2nd of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Injuries/Suspensions/Other</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;" width="240" align="right"><b>None</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center"><br></th>
<td width="240"><b>None</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th colspan="3" height="20" bgcolor="silver"></th>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/22/4254856/nba-playoffs-round-1-game-2-clippers-grizzlies-open-threadSteve Perrin2013-04-22T12:18:40-07:002013-04-22T12:18:40-07:00Clips-Grizz Game 2 preview: Holding home court
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<figcaption>Harry How</figcaption>
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<p>The Clippers won Game 1 in convincing fashion, but it's a seven game series. Memphis just needs one win in L.A. to steal home court advantage, so the Clippers have to win this one to keep them Grizzlies down.</p> <table align="center" cellpadding="5" border="1" cellspacing="5" class="sbnu-legacy-content-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center">2013 NBA Playoffs - First Round</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240"><center><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/472353/bvv028jd1hhr8ee8ii7a0fg4i_medium.gif" alt="Bvv028jd1hhr8ee8ii7a0fg4i_medium"></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center">vs</th>
<td width="240"><center> <a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/502994/793.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/502994/793_medium.gif" class="photo" alt="793_medium"></a> <br id="1351645292796">
</center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240"><center><b>56-26</b></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center"><br></th>
<td width="240"><center><b>56-26</b></center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 2 - April 22nd, 2013, 7:30 PM</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Prime Ticket, TNT, KFWB 980 AM, KWW 1330 AM<br></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><a href="http://www.tiqiq.com/nba/los-angeles-clippers-tickets?pubid=1011034" target="_blank"><b>Buy Clippers Tickets</b></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center">Series Schedule<br>
</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Clippers lead series 1-0</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center">
<b>Game 1 - Sat April 20 in Los Angeles, </b><a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/20/4248104/clippers-bury-grizzlies-in-game-1-112-91"><b>Clippers 112, Grizzlies 91</b></a>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 2 - Mon April 22, 7:30 p.m., Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 3 - Thu April 25, 6:30 p.m., Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 4 - Sat April 27, 1:30 p.m., Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 5 * Tue April 30, Time TBD, Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 6 * Fri May 3, Time TBD, Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 7 * Sun May 5, Time TBD, Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center">* if necessary</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Probable Starters</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Chris Paul</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Mike Conley</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Chauncey Billups</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Tony Allen</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Caron Butler</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Tayshaun Prince</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><span><b>Blake Griffin</b></span></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Zach Randolph</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><span><b>DeAndre Jordan</b></span></td>
<th width="20" align="center">C</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Marc Gasol</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Key Reserves</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Eric Bledsoe</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Keyon Dooling</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Jamal Crawford</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Jerryd Bayless</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Matt Barnes</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Quincy Pondexter</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Lamar Odom</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Darrell Arthur</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Ryan Hollins</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">C</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Ed Davis</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Regular Season Advanced Stats</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">91.1 (19th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">Pace</th>
<td width="240"><b>88.4 (30th of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">110.6 (4th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">ORtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>104.9 (17th of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">103.6 (8th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">DRtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>100.3 (2nd of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Injuries/Suspensions/Other</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td style="text-align: right;" width="240" align="right"><b>None</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center"><br></th>
<td width="240"><b>None</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th colspan="3" height="20" bgcolor="silver"></th>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><b>The Back Story:</b></p>
<p>-- October 31, 2012 in Los Angeles | <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Clippers</a> 101, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzlies</a> 92 | <a href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2012/10/31/3584398/clippers-final-score-l-a-still-owns-memphis-101-92" target="_blank"><b>Recap</b></a> |<b> <a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20121031/MEMLAC/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore" target="_blank">Box Score</a></b></p>
<p>-- January 14, 2013 in Memphis | Clippers 99, Grizzlies 73 | <a href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/1/14/3877926/clippers-dont-need-paul-to-trounce-grizzlies-99-73" target="_blank"><b>Recap</b></a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20130114/LACMEM/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore" target="_blank"><b>Box Score</b></a></p>
<p>-- March 13, 2013 in Los Angeles | Grizzlies 96, Clippers 85 | <a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/3/13/4102472/clippers-lose-a-big-one-to-grizzlies-96-85"><b>Recap</b></a> | <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nba.com/games/20130313/MEMLAC/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore"><b>Box Score</b></a></p>
<p>-- April 13, 2013 in Memphis | Clippers 91, Grizzlies 87 | <a href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/13/4222392/clippers-stop-grizzlies-91-87-take-control-of-home-court-race" target="_blank"><b>Recap</b></a> | <b><a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20130413/LACMEM/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore" target="_blank">Box Score</a></b></p>
<p><b>The Big Picture:</b></p>
<p>Things could not have gone much better for the Clippers in Game 1 of the series. They dominated the rebounding battle, scored at will against the Grizzlies vaunted defense, led the entire way, and closed the game on a 35-15 run. Even the things that went wrong for the Clippers went right: Blake Griffin may have fouled out, but if Griffin and Zach Randolph are going to cancel each other out with foul trouble and a tendency towards MMA over basketball, it hurts the Grizzlies much more than it hurts the Clippers. The Clippers have lots of other elite scorers on their team -- the Grizzlies, not so much. But in the playoffs, one win is meaningless without three others, and Memphis' goal on their trip to L.A. was to win one game. They can still achieve that goal tonight, in which case the Clippers Game 1 victory will become a distant memory as the scene shifts to Memphis. If the Clippers can bottle Game 1, they should. The effort to protect their defensive glass is the first thing they'll want to repeat. They probably won't hold Memphis to four offensive rebounds again, but they can continue to work hard and box out, and if they can limit the Grizzlies second chances it will once again give them a great chance to win. On the other end, it all starts with Chris Paul and the other perimeter scorers for the Clippers. If Griffin and DeAndre Jordan and Lamar Odom and the other bigs can continue to limit Randolph and Marc Gasol they will have done their job, because if this series becomes a contest between the perimeter players, it's no contest.</p>
<p><b>The Antagonist:</b></p>
<p>The Grizzlies do two things at an elite level in the NBA -- rebound and play defense. They were crushed on the boards in Game 1 and allowed the Clippers to score almost at will. To give you an idea of how bad it was, the Grizz averaged 3.6 more rebounds per game than their opponents during the regular season (second in the league), allowed .435 shooting from the field (third) and allowed an average of 89.3 points per game (first). Those numbers were -24, .554 and 112 in Game 1. Memphis will do better than that the rest of the series -- but it may not matter. The Clippers are clearly not the least bit intimidated by the Grizzlies, and it's looking more and more like L.A. just has their number. Jerryd Bayless led the Grizzlies in scoring in Game 1 -- which is all well and good, but when Bayless is in the game, Tony Allen probably isn't. The bottom line is that is forced to rely on Bayless to carry the scoring load as they were in Game 1 they will be in big trouble. The Grizzlies have got to figure out how to get Randolph and Gasol some space to operate and hope they can get onto the offensive glass or this series will not last long.</p>
<p><b>The Subplots</b></p>
<ul>
<li> <b>Series Preview.</b> Be sure to check out the Series Preview; all the good stuff in there is still plenty applicable.</li>
<li> <b>Scoring Options.</b> The Grizzlies have one player on their roster -- that's one, as in less than two -- who has averaged more than 15 points per game for an NBA season. That one player is Zach Randolph. The Clippers have six players who have averaged at least 20 points per game for an NBA season, not to mention Lamar Odom who has averaged over 17. Now, I'll allow that <span>Grant Hill</span> is not going to be a primary scoring option for the Clippers this series and that Chauncey Billups and Caron Butler and Odom are beyond their scoring primes, but the simple fact is that all these guys are scorers and can score in bunches if they need to. So while it may seem at first that a hyper-physical battle between Randolph and Griffin on the block may seem to fit the Grizzlies style, if foul trouble or exhaustion takes those two guys out of the game, it definitely hurts Memphis more than it hurts L.A.</li>
<li> <b>Grizzly Killer.</b> What is it about Eric Bledsoe and the Grizzlies? I think Bledsoe is great and a real difference-maker for the Clippers against any team, but he seems to torment the Grizzlies in particular, though I'm not sure why that should necessarily be so. The Clippers have now won five straight games over the Grizzlies when Bledsoe has played going back to Game 7 last year. Bledsoe harasses Mike Conley relentlessly and seems immune to Memphis' pressure defense on the other end. Bledsoe played all of the decisive fourth quarter Saturday night and finished the game 7-7 -- which may seem like an outlier at first, until you realize that five of those came within two feet of the basket.</li>
<li> <b>Contingency plans.</b> A seven game series involves more adjustments than the NBA regular season. Facing the same team night after night -- especially when it's the same team you played in the prior postseason -- breeds a lot of familiarity. The Grizzlies have a really good Plan A -- they want to play high-low with Gasol and Randolph on offense and they expect to lock you down on defense. They're never going to be a great offensive team, but if the defense is dialed in they can still outscore you. The problem is, the Grizzlies don't have much in the way of a Plan B. Take Bayless for instance. He's shown over the years and again this season that he's ineffective as a point guard. The Grizzlies had to coax Keyon Dooling out of retirement with less than two weeks remaining in the season because they didn't have a viable backup for Conley. Bayless has scored well for Memphis, but if he's in, then defensive specialist Tony Allen is out or he's forced to move to the three. And for each of those moves, the Clippers have a ready and effective counter. If Memphis plays Bayless and sits Allen, it's an invitation to Paul and Jamal Crawford to score almost at will against smaller, poorer perimeter defenders. When Memphis played Bayless and Allen together on the wings in the fourth quarter Saturday, <span>Vinny Del Negro</span> unleashed a three guard lineup of Paul, Bledsoe and Billups that broke the game wide open. The Clippers are deeper and more versatile -- if Plan A doesn't work for Memphis, their contingency plans are certainly not going to work.</li>
<li> <b>Officiating.</b> There were 11 personal fouls called on Griffin and Randolph during Saturday's game: at least seven of those came against each other, including one double foul. To my Clipper-goggle vision, it seemed that almost all of those were on contact initiated by Randolph -- so I personally didn't think the refs were doing the Clippers any particular favors. Nor did they seem to be calling the game particularly close -- the hand-to-hand combat occurring between Griffin and Randolph is more or less forcing calls, and in fact on at least two occasions Griffin and Randolph were on the ground behind the play without a whistle sounding. If Randolph wants to mix it up, Griffin is more than willing -- but it seems like the officials are not going to let this devolve into a street fight, and as we've pointed out, if Griffin and Randolph end up canceling each other out, it favors L.A.</li>
<li> <b>Conley.</b> I like Mike Conley -- a lot. He's been terrific for Memphis this season and is their second leading scorer, averaging a career high 14.6 with a career high .549 true shooting percentage. But he has been ineffective against the Clippers since last year's postseason. In 11 games dating back to Game 2 in 2012, Conley has made more than half his field goal attempts just once -- in Game 4 last year. Foul trouble on Saturday limited him to just 28 minutes. The Grizzlies need Conley to be good to have a chance in this series -- in fact, they probably need him to be great -- but it just isn't happening. A big portion of the credit goes to Bledsoe for his defense on Conley.</li>
<li> <b>Health.</b> We pointed it out in the series preview but it really stood out in Game 1; Paul was hurting in the Grizzlies series last season and he's healthy this year, and it makes a huge difference. With all of his quickness at his disposal, Memphis has no answer for Paul. They desperately tried to force him left where he is less effective throughout Game 1, but Paul continually found ways to get back to the right. His seven points to open the third quarter and dagger three in the fourth seemed to say "Forget it Grizz, it's not happening." Lionel Hollins didn't try Allen on Paul much in Game 1 -- partly because Allen only played 17 minutes in deference to Bayless. Will that change in Game 2? Even if it does, it probably won't matter.</li>
<li> <b>Connections.</b> Zach Randolph is a former Clipper who they traded to Memphis to make room for Blake Griffin after winning the lottery and making Griffin the first overall pick in the 2009 draft. Keyon Dooling, who came out of retirement to sign with the Grizzlies a couple weeks ago and immediately became their backup point guard, began his 13 year NBA career as a Clipper. Prince and Billups were teammates for over six seasons in Detroit and won an NBA title together. Grizzlies coach <span>Lionel Hollins</span> and assistant coach <span>Henry Bibby</span> each played for the San Diego Clippers in the early 80s. Clippers assistant coach <span>Marc Iavaroni</span> was head coach of the Grizzlies for a season and a half from 07 to 09.</li>
<li><b>Get the Memphis perspective at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzly Bear Blues</a>.</b></li>
</ul>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/22/4253004/nba-playoffs-round-1-game-2-clippers-grizzlies-preview-holding-homeSteve Perrin2013-04-19T19:56:39-07:002013-04-19T19:56:39-07:00Clippers-Grizzlies Series Preview
<figure>
<img alt="" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fTHYV8n4JwvRJ4XBNq-q5ERHTwQ=/0x295:3165x2405/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/11826917/20121031_gav_sv5_031.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Gary A. Vasquez-US PRESSWIRE</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The Clippers and Grizzlies played the most entertaining series of the 2012 NBA Playoffs and it's time to do it again.</p> <table align="center" cellpadding="5" border="1" cellspacing="5" class="sbnu-legacy-content-table"><tbody>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center">2013 NBA Playoffs<br>First Round</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240"><center><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/472353/bvv028jd1hhr8ee8ii7a0fg4i_medium.gif" alt="Bvv028jd1hhr8ee8ii7a0fg4i_medium"></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center">vs</th>
<td width="240"><center> <a target="_blank" href="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/502994/793.gif"><img src="http://assets.sbnation.com/assets/502994/793_medium.gif" class="photo" alt="793_medium"></a> <br id="1351645292796">
</center></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240"><center><b>56-26</b></center></td>
<th width="20" align="center"><br></th>
<td width="240"><center><b>56-26</b></center></td>
</tr>
<tr></tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center">Series Schedule<br>
</th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 1 - Sat April 20, 7:30 p.m., Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 2 - Mon April 22, 7:30 p.m., Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 3 - Thu April 25, 6:30 p.m., Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 4 - Sat April 27, 1:30 p.m., Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 5 Tue April 30, Time 7:30 p.m., Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 6 Fri May 3, Time TBD, Memphis, FedEx Forum</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><b>Game 7 * Sun May 5, Time TBD, Los Angeles, STAPLES Center</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center">* if necessary</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan="3" align="center"><a href="http://www.tiqiq.com/nba/los-angeles-clippers-tickets?pubid=1011034" target="_blank"><b>Buy Clippers Tickets</b></a></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Probable Starters</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Chris Paul</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Mike Conley</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Chauncey Billups</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Tony Allen</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Caron Butler</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Tayshaun Prince</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><span><b>Blake Griffin</b></span></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Zach Randolph</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><span><b>DeAndre Jordan</b></span></td>
<th width="20" align="center">C</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Marc Gasol</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Key Reserves</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Eric Bledsoe</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Keyon Dooling</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Jamal Crawford</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SG</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Jerryd Bayless</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Matt Barnes</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">SF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Quincy Pondexter</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Lamar Odom</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">PF</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Darrell Arthur</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b><span>Ryan Hollins</span></b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">C</th>
<td width="240"><b><span>Ed Davis</span></b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th bgcolor="silver" colspan="3" align="center"><b>Advanced Stats 2012-2013 Regular Season</b></th>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">91.1 (19th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">Pace</th>
<td width="240"><b>88.4 (30th of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">110.6 (4th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">ORtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>104.9 (17th of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td width="240" align="right"><b style="text-align: start; ">103.6 (8th of 30)</b></td>
<th width="20" align="center">DRtg</th>
<td width="240"><b>100.3 (2nd of 30)</b></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<th colspan="3" height="20" bgcolor="silver"></th>
</tr>
</tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><b>The Back Story:</b></p>
<p>-- October 31, 2012 in Los Angeles | <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.clipsnation.com/">Clippers</a> 101, <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzlies</a> 92 | <a href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2012/10/31/3584398/clippers-final-score-l-a-still-owns-memphis-101-92" target="_blank"><b>Recap</b></a> |<b> <a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20121031/MEMLAC/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore" target="_blank">Box Score</a></b></p>
<p>-- January 14, 2013 in Memphis | Clippers 99, Grizzlies 73 | <a href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/1/14/3877926/clippers-dont-need-paul-to-trounce-grizzlies-99-73" target="_blank"><b>Recap</b></a> | <a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20130114/LACMEM/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore" target="_blank"><b>Box Score</b></a></p>
<p>-- March 13, 2013 in Los Angeles | Grizzlies 96, Clippers 85 | <a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/3/13/4102472/clippers-lose-a-big-one-to-grizzlies-96-85"><b>Recap</b></a> | <a target="_blank" href="http://www.nba.com/games/20130313/MEMLAC/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore"><b>Box Score</b></a></p>
<p>-- April 13, 2013 in Memphis | Clippers 91, Grizzlies 87 | <a href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/13/4222392/clippers-stop-grizzlies-91-87-take-control-of-home-court-race" target="_blank"><b>Recap</b></a> | <b><a href="http://www.nba.com/games/20130413/LACMEM/gameinfo.html#nbaGIboxscore" target="_blank">Box Score</a></b></p>
<p><b>The Big Picture:</b></p>
<p>For the first time in franchise history, the Clippers earned a top four seed in the NBA playoffs. Their reward is a team that won just as many as they did, the 56 win Memphis Grizzlies. The Clippers and Grizzlies met in the most competitive and entertaining series of the 2012 NBA playoffs -- so good news everybody, here we go again. The Clippers beat the Grizzlies in seven games last season, winning Game 1 with a massive comeback from 27 points down and winning Game 7 in Memphis. The Clippers also won the season series this year three games to one. So you have to like the Clippers chances in the series this year, especially with home court advantage.</p>
<p><b>The Antagonist:</b></p>
<p>The Grizzlies have the second highest rated defense in the NBA, and they may be even better defensively now than they were over the course of the season with the addition of Tayshaun Prince to the roster. Memphis may have the best starting bigs in the NBA in Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol, and they also have four potential All Defense team candidates in Gasol, Tony Allen, Mike Conley and Prince. They're a great defensive team with a great starting lineup, but they are not without their flaws. They can struggle to score in their half court offense, and have the lowest offensive efficiency of any Western Conference playoff team. Nor are they the deepest team in the league. But that defense is capable of winning games almost on its own, and they'll give the Clippers everything they can handle.</p>
<p><b>The Subplots</b></p>
<ul>
<li> <b>Comparison of key metrics.</b><span style="line-height: 9.75px;"> </span>The Grizzlies have the best defensive efficiency in the West, second best in the league. They also have the third worst offensive efficiency in the Western Conference and by far the worst among the eight West teams in the postseason. They are the only West team with an offensive efficiency below the league average. By contrast the Clippers are fourth in the league in offensive efficiency and eighth in defensive efficiency, a much better balance of offense and defense.</li>
<li> <b>The Questionable Blogger.</b> Be sure to check out the Q&A's between <a target="_blank" href="http://www.grizzlybearblues.com/2013/4/19/4242644/nba-playoff-preview-q-a-with-steve-perrin-of-clips-nation">myself</a> and <a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/19/4243186/nba-playoffs-the-questionable-blogger-with-kevin-lipe-of-grizzly-bear">Kevin Lipe</a> of SBNation's Memphis blog, <a target="_blank" href="http://www.grizzlybearblues.com/">Grizzly Bear Blues</a>.</li>
<li> <b>Linked franchises.</b> The Clippers and Grizzlies seem somehow linked. For one thing, they are two of the least successful franchises in NBA history -- who are trying to change their fortunes in recent seasons of relative success. Both set franchise records for wins this season with identical 56-26 records. Not only that, they were both 32-9 at home and 24-17 on the road. The Clippers previous best season was 49 wins; for the Grizzlies it was 50 wins. The Grizzlies have only won one playoff series in franchise history; the Clippers have won two series since moving to California, the second one being last season over the Grizzlies. The last two times the Clippers' made the playoffs the Grizzlies played a significant role -- in 2006, the Clippers had to tank in order to finish behind the Grizzlies so that they could host a first round series against the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.denverstiffs.com/">Nuggets</a> in a playoff seeding loophole. Last year the teams met in the 4-5 matchup. </li>
<li> <b>Injury watch.</b> Ostensibly both teams enter the post season completely healthy. They each had all their players available in their final games this season. But that doesn't mean there are no injury concerns. Although Marc Gasol is showing no ill affects of the injury, it wasn't that long ago that he was out of the lineup with a torn abdominal muscle. It's hard to imagine that injury isn't still at least painful. Chauncey Billups has missed most of his season with the Clippers with various issues. He began the season still rehabbing his ruptured Achilles tendon and after he returned had trouble staying on the court, suffering other minor injuries. Those injuries were not directly related to the Achilles, but may have resulted from Billups compensating while the Achilles continued to heal. Finally, there's Blake Griffin, who was playing with back spasms Wednesday night. It's great to be 24, because there's no way I could play with back spasms, not to mention that I'd be out of action for a month. Griffin played through it and may well be fine by the start of the series on Saturday, but it's a situation to watch.</li>
<li> <b>Sequel to a blockbuster.</b> Clippers-Grizzlies in the first round last year was the best series of the entire 2012 NBA playoffs -- and it's not just Clippers fans who think that. The series went seven games with the Clippers winning the decisive game on the road. Six of the seven games were within single digits, with the first two games decided by a single point and the third going to overtime. And of course there was that incredible come back from 27 points down by the Clippers in game 1, one of the great comebacks in NBA history. NBA fans should be thrilled with the prospect of another series between these two teams -- if it's half the series it was last year, it will still be the best series of the first round.</li>
<li> <b>CP3 injury free.</b> If you'll recall, Chris Paul missed the final two games of the regular season last year with a groin injury. He went into the postseason clearly less than 100% and proceeded to get dinged up further by the physical Grizzlies defense. In contrast, Paul is as healthy this season as anyone can expect to be at the conclusion of the regular season. Paul's PER in last season's playoffs was 20 -- fine, but not great. In the two postseasons of his career where he was fully healthy, his PER has been around 30. That's a big difference.</li>
<li> <b>Close games.</b> Grizzlies are 7-5 in games decided by three or fewer points or in overtime. The Clippers are 3-7 in such games. This is a good news/bad news thing for the Clippers. All those close losses explain why the Clippers have a much better point differential than the Grizzlies (+6.5 to +4.1), but finished with same record. Scoring margin has historically proven to be a reliable predictor of post season success, which is why computer models like those of Kevin Pelton and John Hollinger prefer the Clippers pretty decidedly. However, if we expect close games in the series, does that favor the Grizzlies, who have been much better in those games this season than the Clippers? The good news is that in a close game in Memphis late in the season, the Clippers prevailed, winning by four.</li>
<li> <b>The eight game series.</b> When these teams met in Memphis in the 80th game of the season, everyone knew headed into the game that it was likely for home court advantage. Indeed, the Clippers won that game, and with it secured the home court for this series. That game, which was essentially the first game in an eight game series, featured playoff intensity with a lot on the line -- the fact that the Clippers won that game in Memphis bodes well for them now.</li>
<li> <b>Battle of attrition.</b> In Game 2 of their series last year, the Clippers played most of the last quarter with Caron Butler, <span>Mo Williams</span>, Eric Bledsoe and <span>Nick Young</span> on the bench nursing injuries they sustained in the series. Paul and Griffin were both injured during the series as well. The Grizzlies are arguably the most physical team in the league, and it took a toll last year. Paul, Griffin, Butler and Williams were all still less than 100% when the Clippers went into the second round against San Antonio. The challenge for the Clippers this year is therefore two fold -- win the series, and also avoid injury.</li>
<li> <b>The new Grizzlies.</b> The Grizzlies have a new starter and a new sixth man this year as opposed to last year. Prior to the trade deadline, Memphis pulled off a blockbuster trade that sent <span>Rudy Gay</span>, their second leading scorer and best perimeter scorer, to Toronto while bringing in Tayshaun Prince and Ed Davis. Prince stepped into Gay's starting small forward spot and Davis is a key front court reserve. The Grizzlies also allowed sixth man <span>O.J. Mayo</span> to leave and replaced him with free agent Jerryd Bayless over the summer. Bayless scored less than Mayo during the regular season, but has picked it up in the last couple of months. Coincidentally, Bayless' true shooting percentage this year (.513) is almost identical to Mayo's last year (.514). Are the Grizzlies better or worse for these changes? Losing Gay makes their identity even more clear -- Prince is a better defender, and he leaves more shots for Randolph and Gasol inside. Bayless for Mayo may be a wash -- though it seems pretty clear that Mayo had a higher ceiling.</li>
<li> <b>Playoff experience.</b> When the Clippers and Grizzlies met last year, the Clippers featured three starters (Griffin, Jordan and <span>Randy Foye</span>) and a key reserve (Eric Bledsoe) who had never played in a playoff game. This season, not only do Griffin and Jordan and Bledsoe have 11 playoff games from last season under their belt, but they've also got a healthy Chauncey Billups and new additions Lamar Odom, Matt Barnes, <span>Grant Hill</span> and <span>Ronny Turiaf</span> all have significant postseason experience. On the other hand, Billups old <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.detroitbadboys.com/">Pistons</a> pal Tayshaun Prince brings vast additional playoff experience to the Grizzlies as well.</li>
<li> <b style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">Turnovers and offensive rebounds.</b><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;"> </span><span style="font-size: 13px; line-height: 17px;">The Grizzlies are the second best offensive rebounding team in the league and second at forcing turnovers. Their halfcourt offense can be brutally bad at times, but if they generate easy scores off putbacks and turnovers then it matters less how bad they are in the halfcourt. The Clippers must -- MUST -- keep their turnovers low and keep the Grizzlies off the O-glass. I can't stress this enough -- take care of the ball and BOX OUT!</span> </li>
<li> <b>Tayshaun and Caron.</b> It's worth recalling that in the 2011 off-season, the Clippers had cap space and were shopping for a small forward. Butler and Prince were the leading candidates, and Prince decided to stay in Detroit while the Clippers opted for Butler. Butler has been terrific as a Clipper, scoring consistently, playing defense, filling his role well. But one can't help but wonder if Prince might not have been a better fit, especially as a wing defender.</li>
<li> <b>Bench strength.</b> These are both strong teams, but there's little question that the Clippers enjoy a distinct advantage off the bench (at least with Bledsoe and a productive Crawford). The Clippers are first in the league in minutes played from reserves and third in bench scoring. The Grizzlies on the other hand are 27th in both minutes and scoring. </li>
<li> <b>Mike Conley.</b> Mike Conley is quietly putting together an outstanding season in Memphis. When the Grizzlies gave him a $40M contract extension a few years back it raised quite a few eyebrows, but he's looking like a bargain at this point. He's a terrific defender and is third in the league in steals per game, but has really improved on offense. He is averaging a career high in scoring, while also putting up career-best shooting numbers. He has also proven to be clutch, hitting big baskets in close games several times this season.</li>
<li> <b>Three point shooting.</b> The Clippers have of course had difficulty defending the three point line this season. The Grizzlies though are dead last in the NBA in three pointers attempted and made, so it likely won't be a major concern tonight. Since the trades, they take even fewer threes since Gay and Ellington were two of their only three point threats. Prince will take a corner three, Bayless isn't afraid to shoot the long ball and Pondexter is hitting better than .395, mostly from the corner. But this is a team that simply doesn't use the three point line as a weapon, which is probably good news for the Clippers since their strength tends to be defending the interior.</li>
<li> <b>No love lost.</b> These teams don't like each other. Hard fought seven game playoff series will do that to teams, not to mention regular season games laden with playoff implications. Randolph in particular seems to have a real beef with Blake Griffin and will take every opportunity to rough him up. How the Clippers handle the Grizzlies physical nature -- and perhaps more importantly, how the refs call the series -- will be a big factor. If the refs allow a lot of pushing and shoving, then advantage Memphis. Either way, expect plenty of physical play and some tempers. Flagrants, technicals, hard fouls, double fouls -- last year's series had them all, and expect nothing less this season.</li>
<li> <b>Out-grizzling the Grizzlies.</b> The Grizzlies made their defensive reputation last season by coming up with steals and forcing turnovers, leading the league in both of those categories. However it is the Clippers who lead the league in both steals and forced turnovers this season. So the team that does a better job of protecting the ball in the series will be at a major advantage.</li>
<li> <b>Turnovers.</b> This season's Clippers have flip-flopped on turnovers on both sides of the ball. Last year they had the second lowest turnover percentage on offense, but were middle of the pack at forcing turnovers. This season, the lead the league at forcing turnovers on defense, but are below average at protecting the ball. Playing at a faster pace and resting Paul more (in favor of the turnover prone Bledsoe) are definitely factors in turning the ball over, but the Clippers would be wise to do a better job protecting the ball, both against the Grizzlies and in the playoffs if they want to win. Memphis thrives on turnovers, and one way the Clippers beat them in the playoffs last season was by taking care of the ball and depriving the Grizzlies of easy baskets.</li>
<li> <b>Predictions.</b> Most publications have the Clippers winning the series. A compendium of various previews can be found <a target="_blank" href="http://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/19/4243040/2013-playoff-preview-and-predictions-los-angeles-clippers-vs-memphis">here</a>. Myself, I'm going with the Clippers in six games.</li>
<li> <b>Connections.</b> Zach Randolph is a former Clipper who they traded to Memphis to make room for Blake Griffin after winning the lottery and making Griffin the first overall pick in the 2009 draft. Keyon Dooling, who came out of retirement to sign with the Grizzlies a couple weeks ago and immediately became their backup point guard, began his 13 year NBA career as a Clipper. Prince and Billups were teammates for over six seasons in Detroit and won an NBA title together. Grizzlies coach <span>Lionel Hollins</span> and assistant coach <span>Henry Bibby</span> each played for the San Diego Clippers in the early 80s.</li>
<li><b>Get the Memphis perspective at <a href="http://www.grizzlybearblues.com/" target="_blank">Grizzly Bear Blues</a>.</b></li>
</ul>
https://www.clipsnation.com/2013/4/19/4240440/2013-nba-playoffs-first-round-clippers-grizzlies-series-previewSteve Perrin