Memphis Grizzlies Must Win in Memphis, L.A. to Survive

Yesterday, the Grizzlies blew a humongous lead over the Clippers (27 points) late in the game. After dominating for more than three quarters, Memphis thought it was over.

It wasn't. Not by a long shot.

As a Grizzlies fan, you start to get real tired of this crap. You would think that after last year, the Grizzlies would know how to finish a game. Especially on their home court for God's sake. You could hear a pin drop in FedEx Forum last night.

But enough of this moping around. What the Grizzlies must learn to do is move on and get the show on the road. They did it last season. Who says they can't do it again? After all, doubts have always been around this team. But they never listen to them. 

Here is what needs to happen if Memphis wants to continue their playoff push.

First off, win the home games. If you were lucky enough to win home-court advantage, you must use it. There are very few places that can get as rowdy as FedEx Forum at night. The Grizzlies of all teams should know this. They need to get the crowd back into the series. 

A dominating performance on Wednesday can fix this. Memphis must come out and dominate for a full four quarters. They must hustle the entire game and redeem themselves. Then they can start to focus on winning in Los Angeles.

Some of you are probably saying, "Well duh, Clint...you need to win games to survive." I understand that. But here is the problem.

As of now, the Grizzlies have had their hearts ripped out and put on display. Being stunned in front of your city is a terrible thing. That is why the next thing I say will be essential.

Memphis must invade L.A. and beat the Clippers at least once. They have embarrassed us on our home court and we must do the same to them. It will not be easy. The Clippers have a similar record at home (24-9) to the Grizzlies (26-7). 

This is where the "Anything You Can Do" song pops into my head. If Los Angeles can do it, so can Memphis. By effectively beating the Clippers at home, we can even up the competition.

Ask any team in the league. You do not want to face Memphis on even grounds. They will learn from their mistakes. 

On Facebook, Nike Basketball posted something along the lines of "Lesson Number 6: Determination can't be stopped," and it had a photo of Chris Paul on the side.

Well, I can give them this: "Lesson Number 7: Get mad. Then get even."

Come on, Grizzlies. Do it for your city. Show everybody why you are feared throughout the league.

I can't wait till Wednesday.