Game 1 between the two teams was the dogfight most everyone expected. Memphis matches up with the Thunder, even when Westbrook is in the lineup.
Kelvin Martin caused a lot of problems. Memphis should know about this guy. He'll take a mid-range floater once in a while, but mostly he uses his quick release on long 2s and 3s. Follow him at all times when he's on the floor.
If I'm Memphis, I accept that Durant is gonna get his 28 or so. The Grizzlies have to see Durant like they saw Paul in the Clippers' series. One man may score, but don't let that one guy also facilitate easy baskets for his teammates. If in each game Durant gets his 28, Martin only gets around 16 or so, and the others don't get much, Memphis can win this series. If Durant gets 34, Martin gets in the mid-20s, and Ibaka/Sefolosha/Jackson get consistent double figures from easy baskets, Memphis will lose over and over.
As it is, I think Memphis wins Game 2, 99-97. Conley is the key in this game, getting as many assists as field goal attempts. He's gotta help Prince and Allen get easy buckets.
Getting a split on the road sets up Memphis for success the rest of the series.
After the Game: Memphis 99, Oklahoma City 93. The fourth-quarter roles were reversed from Game 1. This time, the Grizzlies outscored OKC 30-19 to finish strong & not let it come down to a last-minute play determining the victor.
For Memphis, it was 36 field goals, 22/10 assist/turnover and 13 steals. Conley just missed a triple double (26 points, 10 rebs, 9 assists). He took 22 shots, but hit half of 'em. Gasol scored 25, with 5 rebs and 5 assists. Randolph got a hard-fought 15, and added 8 rebounds. Allen added 12, but his 4/13 FG/A is a bit troubling.
For the Thunder, it was 30 field goals, 17/19 assist/turnover and 3 steals. Durant got his, and also nearly got a triple double (36 points, 11 rebs and 9 assists). Fisher got 19 off the bench, mostly in the first half. Ibaka added 11 and Jackson contributed 10. Memphis did a nice job accounting for Martin, who only scored 6.
It's evident that missing Westbrook has brought the Thunder back to the pack. As a Grizzlies' fan I say "too bad". It happened to Memphis a few years ago. It happens to teams every year. You still have to play with the guys who are available. Those guys have to execute. You play together as a team, you have a chance to win against any opponent.
The next two games are in Memphis, 11 May (Saturday) and 13 May. Conceivably, Memphis could go up 3 games to 1 if the Grizzlies defend home court. That is easier said than done, however. Looking forward to seeing the Memphis fans respond to this opportunity.
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