Huge fourth quarter lifts the Clippers past Memphis.
The Los Angeles Clippers outscored the Memphis Grizzlies by 15 points in the fourth quarter, as they went on to seal a 112-91 win in their opening game at the Staples Center.
Chris Paul led the Clippers with 23 points and seven assists, who had seven players end the game in double scoring figures, while Jerryd Bayless paced the Grizzlies with 19 points.
It was a disappointing night for their ‘Big Three’, as Zach Randolph (13 points), Mike Conley (12 points) and Marc Gasol (16 points) were all below-par in a game that required them to be at their best.
The fourth quarter has become a problem for Memphis this season when facing the Clippers, as the latter have now outscored them 130-93 in the final 12 minutes in their five meetings this season.
It has resulted in four wins for L.A. and has been a product of their ability to out-rebound their rivals, going 47-23 on Saturday.
The two teams return to the Staples Center on Monday, with the Clippers hoping to take an early 2-0 series lead.
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