The Grizzlies face a 2-1 series deficit in their Western Conference first-round playoff duel with the Los Angles Clippers as Game 4 looms tonight in Staples Center.

Two wins for the Clippers that the Grizzlies and most pundits believe the Grizzlies should have won. But the Griz have faltered down the stretch, partly due to poor decision-making that leads to bad shots, turnovers and defensive lapses.

“It’s mental,” Griz forward Rudy Gay said. “In close games you can’t be tired. You have to play basketball, and play the basketball you know how to play.”

(Chris) Paul is also giving the Clippers something at the end of games that the Griz are lacking, and that’s leadership. Paul gives the Clippers a clear plan while the Griz look confused about what to do and who should get the ball.

via Ronald Tillery of The Commercial Appeal