The Memphis Grizzlies, flying high off of a Game 1 in San Antonio, crumbled in Game 2 against the Spurs, eventually submitting to a 93-87 loss. What changed between the games wasn't just Manu Ginobili; the Argentine did play a role, of course, with 17 points in Game 2 after missing Game 1. But Memphis' biggest problems came on their own offensive end, where they hit just 39.8 percent from the field and Zach Randolph, a monster in Game 1, came away with a 5-14 night.
Spurs Vs. Grizzlies, Game 3: Can Zach Randolph, Memphis Offense Push Back?
Marc Gasol was similarly thwarted in Game 2, hitting two of nine from the field. At the end of a season built on offense -- to the shock of many -- San Antonio bounced back with an extraordinary display of defense, shutting the Grizzlies down. Memphis' offense wasn't perfect in Game 1; it was simply abysmal in Game 2.
Now that the series shifts to Tennessee, where Grizzlies fans get their first taste of playoff basketball since 2006, and see a tied series for the first time ever, Memphis will push harder for the win. Despite Z-Bo's relative dispassion (unless a ref missed a call, he's one of the cooler customers on the court), this team is excitable, and Tony Allen is a huge part of that. Some might overrate his impact -- don't forget how solid this team looked by the end of last season -- but there's no questioning his spirit, and the infectiousness of that. If the team needs a spiritual lift after the tough Game 2 loss, Allen's the guy to provide it.
But on offense, Randolph has to provide it, and Gasol needs to provide more. The margin was so slim in Game 1 ... with Manu out ... and Gasol almost perfect ... and Randolph romping. With Manu back, Memphis desperately needs that offense to perform better. The big men are the key.
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