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The Memphis Grizzlies return home, but it doesn’t look like helping the when they play the San Antonio Spurs in Game 3 of their first-round NBA Playoffs series. Join The Roar for live scores from 11:30am (AEST).
The Grizzlies have been blown off the floor in each of the first two matches, and that really doesn’t look like changing given the history of the two sides throughout the season, and also how well the Spurs are playing – especially when it comes to the defensive end.
Memphis, of course have struggled with injuries all season long and it has stunted their momentum and growth as a team – but the playoffs have brought all new horrors over the first two games. Playing in San Antonio, where the Spurs have only lost one game all season doesn’t help matters, and this will tell us just how poor Memphis’ form is.
Following a season series where they were similarly dominated to the tune of four games to nothing, the Grizzlies haven’t even looked competitive.
The common theme across the two games, which have resulted in 32 and 26 point drubbings respectively has been the consistency, accuracy and efficiency of the Spurs defence. With master communicator Tim Duncan on the floor it is not hard to see why, but the Grizzlies have been limited to 74 and 68 points.
They are tediously low totals, and realistically you are not likely to win a game putting up such low amounts of points. Particularly when the Spurs can have offensive production coming from anywhere – LaMarcus Aldridge, Tony Parker, Kawhi Leonard or off the bench with Aussie Patty Mills.
So, how exactly do Memphis improve their abysmally poor shooting? The end goal is simple – improve shot selection and offensive creativeness. But how do they achieve that?
They must find a balance to their game that includes both inside and outside shooting, to try and thwart the communication of Tim Duncan, and size in the paint of Kawhi Leonard. This comes down to Zach Randolph and his options with the ball – that is, whether he passes back out, backs down or finds a way to take the shot on.
Essentially, shooting percentage is really the only area they are kicking themselves with – but it is because of the defence displayed by San Antonio.
Prediction
With the support of a full house at the FedEX Forum, the Grizzlies should be able to claw some of the deficit back. Certainly, the Spurs will try playing their starters on limited minutes again and probably take the win. But it won’t be as easy as it was in the first two games.
Spurs by 7.
Be sure to join The Roar for live scores of this match from 11:30am (AEST) and don’t forget to add your own comments in the section below as the action unfolds.
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