Memphis Grizzlies Loss Proves 1-on-1 Basketball Doesn't Win in the NBA Playoffs

The Memphis Grizzlies must know by now that a 27-point lead isn't lost by accident. Something has to be systemically wrong with what a team's doing to cause such an epic collapse.

In this case, there were a few things wrong.

Letdowns in the midst of a blowout are nothing new. They're just especially problematic when they come in the fourth quarter of a playoff game—especially in such a tight series. Memphis's defense disappeared down the stretch, along with the urgency that had built such a dominant lead up to that point.

The most troubling development, though, was Memphis's inability to score in a slowed-down, half-court game.

Without fast-break opportunities to score easy points, the Grizzlies' offense was content to pursue its points through post-ups, isolation and guys trying to do too much individually.

The ball didn't move, and players without the ball didn't move. The game was both literally and figuratively at a standstill for Memphis.

The results were predictable. Lionel Hollins' team put up more than a few ill-advised shots and turned the ball over five times in the quarter. Zach Randolph shot a dreadful 3-13 for the game, while Mike Conley wound up with just eight shot attempts despite making all five of his three-point attempts.

Teams can get by on individual talent for much of the regular season, but they do so at great peril in the playoffs.

You don't want tired legs taking difficult shots at the end of important games. 

If the Grizzlies had superstars like Kevin Durant and Russell Westbrook, a one-on-one strategy might make more sense. But, this isn't the same roster.

Memphis is deep with capable scorers who thrive in certain situations. There's no Carmelo Anthony, though—no one you'd trust to hold on to the ball and throw up the best available shot.

In an ensemble effort, everyone needs to get some looks. Expect Coach Hollins to say a few words about passing the ball before Wednesday's rematch against the Clippers.