Ultimate Grizzlies-Warriors Game 3 Preview

May 5, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) prepares to shoot a free throw during the fourth quarter in game two of the second round of the NBA Playoffs against the Golden State Warriors at Oracle Arena. The Grizzlies defeated the Warriors 97-90. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Cold Hard Stats

– The Memphis Grizzlies have averaged 98 points through their first seven playoff games, scoring a total of 686 points. They’ve lost both matchups where they scored less than 97 points (92 Trail Blazers loss, 86 GSW Loss). When the Grizzlies score 97 points or more they win the battle.

– One defense, the Grizzlies are holding opponents to 94.3 points in their first seven playoff games. Allowing 660 point to be scored. It appears the magic number is over 100 for the Warriors to defeat the Grizzlies. Memphis must keep the Warriors’ scoring in check on d.

– Mike Conley is averaging 17.5 points per game (54.2 FG%) throughout 4 playoff games. Combining three regular season matchups and playoff action, he’s averaging 18.3 points per game (48.8 FG%) against the Golden State Warriors.

Trivia Note: Conley typically puts up 16 points on the scoreboard at home and averages 15.8 points on Saturday matchups this season.

– Tony Allen is averaging 2.71 steals per game through his first seven playoff games. 3.5 steals against the Warriors. Despite being a 62.7 FT% shooter in the regular season, he’s averaging a 75 FT% (9 of 12) through the playoffs.

– The Grizzlies’ frontline is averaging 38 points per game against the Warriors. Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol have scored a combined 76 points through 2 matchups. They are going to the line 13 times per game in the Warriors series, making all but 2 shots (26 total attempts).

– Nick Calathes did not play in Game 2 of the Warriors series and Beno Udrih has not been quite the same since his ankle sprain (dipping to single digit scoring in the last three). Joerger has been entrusting some playmaking duties to Vince Carter, prefering a bigger lineup. Carter has struggled a bit, going 2 of 11 in the last two games.

– Jeff Green has scored in double digits in only 2 of the last 7. Green has averaged 13.1 points a game with the Grizzlies and 15 points a game overall (Celtics/Grizzlies). His shooting has respectfully hovered over 40 FG%, and he typically plays well at home. Green averaged 15.3 points a game for the regular season.

– Courtney Lee is the Grizzlies main three point shooter outside of Mike Conley. He’s shot 3 out of 7 three pointers (42.8 FG%) against the Warriors. Courtney Lee’s field goal shooting in the playoffs been fantastic, dipping below 40 FG% only once (Grizzlies still won). Lee is averaging 56.7 FG% through the playoffs.

Las Vegas Betting Odds

– Currently, Vegas has the Golden State Warriors as 4 point favorites with a total set around 196.5.

May 5, 2015; Oakland, CA, USA; Memphis Grizzlies guard Mike Conley (11) dribbles the basketball against Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) during the third quarter in game two of the second round of the NBA Playoffs at Oracle Arena. The Grizzlies defeated the Warriors 97-90. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports

Story of the Match

Game 3 promises to be an emotional night. Fans will wear masks in support of Mike Conley, who suffered a major injury in Game 3 the Portland Trail Blazers series. The return was absolutely inspiring. Conley went out firing on all cylinders in his return against the Warriors, taking top scoring honors with 22 points on 8 of 12 shooting.

He is doing everything he can, putting the game of basketball before all else. For the fans and for his team. He should be commended. Conley is the key factor between a Grizzlies win and loss in this series. They need his playmaking and timely scoring. The Grizzlies play a little too much ISO action without his stabilizing presence on the floor. Players appeared shifted out of their roles when he was out.

The Grizzlies’ frontline has been denied anytime out on the floor. The Warriors cannot stop them from scoring baskets, even fouling out on occasion. This Memphis team must continue to exploit these matchups and not fall into the Warriors pace. They must also repeat their tough defense on the Warriors backcourt. Obviously the MVP and Klay are going to get their points, but it must be kept in check. Particularly, the Warriors’ three point shooting.

Memphis has to keep the turnovers to a minimum and not allow the Warriors to get their rhythm out on the open floor. Most of all do not fall into the game of Draymond Green, who’s been a key factor for the Warriors in the playoffs. Grizzlies’ confidence will be high after the win at Oracle arena. They’ll likely maintain their great poise. Keeping the scoring down low in the post, while locking down the Warriors to the best of their ability. Excellent defense is what will get the Grizzlies the W tonight.

Oh yea...one more thing. #BelieveMemphis pic.twitter.com/vMltKsRJli
— Memphis Grizzlies (@memgrizz) May 8, 2015

Important Notes

– Mike Conley had a new protective mask for Saturday’s shootaround. It’s said to be a tighter fit with swelling easing down in his left cheek. Conley told reporters: “Man, I got a broken face and I’m playing. That’s all I’m worried about.”

Current Playoff Record:

5-2

Memphis Grizzlies Season Record:

55-27

Air Time:
Game 3 of the Memphis Grizzlies Vs the Golden State Warriors will be on tonight at 8:00 PM Eastern Time on ABC.

Check out more Memphis Grizzlies articles by me at this link. Follow me on Twitter: @nirregev

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