Memphis Grizzlies vs. Dallas Mavericks: Zach Randolph Puts a Dagger in Mavs
The Memphis Grizzlies have played some of their best ball facing some of the toughest teams in the NBA. Wins against the San Antonio Spurs, Dallas Mavericks, Los Angeles Lakers and Miami Heat are just a few teams that have faltered against the Grizzlies.
The Grizzlies have faced a lot of trials and tribulations this season. At the beginning of the season, the Grizzlies were off to a shaky start. After the Grizzlies continued to improve, their promising shooting guard was suspended for 10 games for violating the league's drug policy.
The Grizzlies have shown toughness throughout all of the distractions. When swingman Rudy Gay injured his shoulder it seemed as if it may be the end of the playoff hopes for the Memphis Grizzlies.
Zach Randolph has remained the catalyst for the team. Z-Bo did not get voted to the NBA All-Star game, but numbers and impact say otherwise.
Just ask the Dallas Mavericks. Randolph hit the game winning shot during an old fashion Western Conference shootout.
During the early part of the game, the Mavericks had the upper hand and it looked like they would be cruising to a victory. In the third quarter, the Memphis Grizzlies exploded for 41 points while holding the Mavericks to 23 points.
No matter what quarter it was, Randolph was too much for the Mavericks. With the loss of Tyson Chandler and the defensive liability of Dirk Nowitzki, Randolph dominated the painted area by shooting a blistering 77 percent from the field. Randolph's play on the inside gave Mike Conley, Marc Gasol and others room to operate.
The Memphis Grizzlies are hitting their peak at the right time. With Gay out of the lineup, the Grizzlies have not missed a beat. Like last night, Randolph has put the team on his back and has willed them to many victories.
Players such as Blake Griffin, Kevin Love and Amar'e Stoudemire may steal all of the headlines, but Randolph is just as efficient as the other players.
Z-Bo may never deserve his due on the national stage, but his peers in the NBA know what he brings to the table night in and night out.
