Memphis Grizzlies Lose Steam After First Half, Gets Clobbered 111-82
The San Antonio Spurs pummeled the Memphis Grizzlies 111-82 in the opening round of the playoffs as the Gasol brothers faced off. Kawhi Leonard paved the way for the Spurs with an outstanding 32 points coupled with three rebounds and five assists. Also leading the way was LaMarcus Aldridge with 20 points, six rebounds, and two assists.
The Grizzlies retaliated with a great performance by Marc Gasol; he netted 32 points, five rebounds, and two assists. However, he only made seven baskets in the second half. Mike Conley followed behind with 13 points — he was also the only other Grizzlies’ player with double-digit points.
Without defensive leader Tony Allen, Leonard took advantage by going off for more than 30 points in his fourth career playoff game where he got 30 points or more. After tonight’s win, this marks the Spurs’ ninth consecutive win over the Grizzlies in the postseason.
Leonard has become the Spurs’ primary offensive weapon, as shown tonight with him manhandling the Grizzlies in traffic. His 15 point 3rd quarter performance helped to build the 20 point lead and eventually the 36 point lead after the final seconds.
Tony Parker also started to look like his old self this game, having 18 points, two rebounds, and two assists.
Manu Ginobli suffered a small cut under his eye which required him to hit the locker room, however, he returned shortly after, ready to play. He had 0 points, three rebounds and two assists off the bench.
Pau Gasol only had 6 points, four rebounds, and one assist – also off the bench.
Luckily for the Grizzlies, it’s only game 1. If they can get into a rhythm and start playing like they’ve been playing all season, there’s still easily a chance they can tie the series up next game – or if they get blown out again, there may be a problem. Only time will tell.