NBA Playoff Schedule: Los Angeles Clippers Can't Afford to Reach a Game 7

The Los Angeles Clippers were in control. They led the series against the Memphis Grizzlies 3-1, they were getting excellent play from stars Chris Paul and Blake Griffin and looked set to make quick work of the pesky Grizzlies.

So much for that.

The Clippers are still in control of this series, even after losing Game 5, 92-80, but they'll be returning home for Game 6 with a banged up Paul and Griffin.

That's a problem—they can't afford to lose a second-straight game and be forced to travel back to Memphis with all of this series momentum on the side of the Grizzlies.

Both players should be able to play in Game 6, even if they aren't 100 percent healthy. Griffin sprained his left knee, while Paul suffered a strained right hip flexor. I think it goes without saying (but I'll say it anyway) that the Clippers are toast without Paul and Griffin giving them effective minutes.

And winning in Los Angeles is vital. The Grizzlies have one of the most raucous, energized crowds in the NBA, and you can bet the atmosphere would be electric.

Plus, if we may (GASP!) look ahead for a moment, the San Antonio Spurs are currently lounging around, waiting patiently for either the Clippers or Grizzlies to win this series.

The last thing the Clippers will want is being beaten up and worn out after a brutal seven-game series, only to face a refreshed, well-rested Spurs squad.

So yes, in just about every conceivable manner, Game 6 is the most important game of the season for the Clippers. Their season isn't over if they lose it, but their championship hopes might be.

No pressure, Clippers.

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