NBA Playoffs: Los Angeles Clippers @ Memphis Grizzlies Game 4
Game 4: Los Angeles Clippers @ Memphis Grizzlies Sat. April 27, 2013 4:30 p.m. ET
The Los Angeles Clippers were able to take a an early two-game lead in their playoff series with the Memphis Grizzlies after winning the first two games at the Staples Center. Chris Paul and company appeared to take control of the series after edging out the Grizzlies in the final minutes of Game 2, but the once the series headed to the FedEx Forum for Game 3 things changed dramatically.
As of right now, the Las Vegas odds appear to have the Clippers still winning this series, but that may not be the case after Game 4 with Memphis potentially evening up the series at two games apiece.
In Game 3, the Grizzlies began to impose their will inside the paint with Zach Randolph emerging as a force to be reckoned with in the frontcourt. Randolph was able to take Blake Griffin out of his game by forcing the All-Star to work defensively. As a result, Randolph proved to be the difference while the reigning Defensive Player of the Year Marc Gasol also began to prove his worth inside the paint.
Coming into Game 4 in Memphis, the Grizzlies are the favorites to come out on top and force the series back to Los Angeles and ultimately back to Memphis for Game 6. The Grizzlies are currently the favorites with a -3 point spread.
Although the spread is reasonable, as this game could very well go either way, I believe the Grizzlies have become the better team in this series and will prove that fact with a second consecutive win on Saturday while covering the spread.
Expect Randolph, Gasol and Tony Allen to step it up defensively and tie the series at 2-2.