NBA Playoffs 2012: Clippers vs. Grizzlies Is Most Compelling First-Round Matchup
The Los Angeles Clippers and the Memphis Grizzlies will face off in the most intriguing first-round matchup of the 2012 NBA Playoffs.
Fans need to tune into this Western Conference playoff pairing. This is why.
Meager Franchise History
Neither the Clippers or the Grizzlies have ever won an NBA championship. These two franchises are historically pathetic and the butt of many NBA jokes.
Watching these two teams try to reverse their fortune is reason enough to tune in. Memphis put a dent in their reputation last season, but their overall outlook still has a way to go.
The Clippers have not just been the butt of NBA jokes. They have been the NBA's joke. Terrible drafting coupled with a multitude of losing seasons in one of the country's largest media markets will do that to you.
Both of these teams would like to erase the past this season. Neither will win an NBA title but they could put a dent in their historical insignificance with a win in Round 1.
The Turnover Battle
Memphis forced more turnovers this season than any other NBA team. The Clippers had the second best assist-to-turnover ratio in the NBA this season.
The turnover battle will be a blast to watch, and will likely decide who comes out on top in this series.
The Grizzlies understand team defense. All five guys defend their positions with tenacity and aggression for 48 minutes a night. This is how Memphis wins games. It will be even more important in the postseason.
The Clippers can thank Chris Paul for their ball security. He leads the NBA in assist-to-turnover ratio and guards the ball like it's a crown jewel. Paul must take extra care of the ball against the pesky Memphis defense.
Watching Memphis make a play at every loose ball and jump into every passing lane makes this series worth watching. Watching the Clippers attempt to protect the ball just adds to it.
Playoff Experience
The Clippers have three starters making their playoff debuts. Memphis is not too far ahead of them, but this group did make an unlikely run last season.
Inexperience can hamper teams regardless of talent on the court. The Clippers are facing an inordinate amount of pressure because of their pathetic history. These inexperienced players will feel the pressure to perform.
Memphis has to feel more confident. The Grizzlies are young, but going through last year's run without Rudy Gay makes them more prepared this time around. With Gay in the lineup, they should feel infallible.
Chris Paul will need to be the steady hand for the Clippers. His veteran leadership is needed now more than ever.
