“I wanted to come out and play better the second game”. The Spurs got another stat-stuffing performance from the typically understated superstar, who had 19 points through the first three quarters before adding 13 in the fourth, to finish with 32 points, 7 rebounds, 4 steals and 5 blocked shots.
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The second-seeded San Antonio Spurs look to complete a four-game sweep of Memphis when they visit the Grizzlies on Sunday.
Randolph was quieted by the San Antonio defense in the first two games, but delivered a better effort in Game 3 with 20 points and 11 rebounds. San Antonio shot almost 58 percent from the floor, with LaMarcus Aldridge and Kawhi Leonard each chipping in seven points during the opening quarter.
Tim’s not taking much of an offensive load against Memphis but with position and an opportunity the big man got one of his two buckets in the game.
The Celtics then survived a frenetic fourth quarter that featured three ties and two lead changes, finally getting separation with five consecutive points for a 104-98 lead. Barnes also had a double-double with 17 points and 11 boards.
The Boston Celtics are also looking to even their series against the Atlanta Hawks, though they may need another Herculean effort from Isaiah Thomas.
“I thought we were a little disjointed at times, mostly due to their pressure and physical toughness”, Popovich said. The Grizzlies fought to the end, but it just wasn’t enough against the Spurs machine as the offense sputtered and faded at the end.
Memphis, of course have struggled with injuries all season long and it has stunted their momentum and growth as a team – but the playoffs have brought all new horrors over the first two games. A fan summed up the Grizzlies’ season by holding up a towel with the slogan: “So proud of my team…”
Leonard, who played a game-high 42 minutes, downplayed his contributions.
The Grizzlies’ first-quarter point total was more than they had in Game 1 (13) and Game 2 (11). Memphis last got within 83-81 on a tip-in by Barnes. The Spurs’ average margin of victory is 12 points.
The win pulled the Celtics within 2-1 in the series with Game 4 on Sunday in Boston.
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He showed on Friday night why he was named the Defensive Player of the Year for the second straight year, as he was active all over the court and made offense hard for several Grizzlies players.
