The Memphis Grizzlies have history and basic math on their side, and yet the possibility of a playoff meltdown has crept into frame after they were unable to slam the door shut and sweep the Portland Trail Blazers on Monday night.
A seven-point cushion through three quarters figured to be enough breathing room for the short-handed Grizzlies to keep the reeling Blazers at bay. But over the game's final 12 minutes, Portland outscored Memphis, 31-17, shifting the series back to Tennessee for Game 5.
If it weren't for the continual struggles of Memphis' big men, the Grizzlies might have been able to avoid a late-game collapse and enjoy some extra rest before a second-round tilt with the Golden State Warriors.
Zach Randolph finished with 12 points on 6-of-20 shooting, marking the third time in four games that he's tallied more shots than points. Marc Gasol admittedly looked sharper, totaling 21 points, seven rebounds and six assists while shooting 7-of-16, but he's generally been more miss than hit throughout the postseason's opening round.
"When you're up 10 poin ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NBA
Article written by Alec Nathan