After an impressive start, the Los Angeles Clippers have lost their last two games and therefore will be eager to bounce back when they face Memphis Grizzlies at Staples Center on Monday.
The Clippers have lost to two of the best teams in the NBA, Houston Rockets and Golden State Warriors, but now are expected to defeat Grizzlies, who have already lost four games in the season. Though the Clippers might have lost their last two games, they came up with some great display on the court and challenged the Rockets and Warriors until the final buzzer. Clippers lost both the games by 4 points.
The Clippers may have to do without the services of Chris Paul when they face Grizzlies as the All-Star is doubtful for Monday's home game. Paul was injured during the game against the Warriors. Austin Rivers, for once, could start for the Clippers.
The Clippers, hence, will have to depend on Blake Griffin, who has been their best player as he averages 29.3 ppg this season. Along with Griffin, DeAndre Jordan and Jamal Crawford also have had a decent start this season.
If these stars get their act together in front of their home fans, the Grizzlies may have to suffer their third straight defeat in the league. The Grizzlies, who are languishing at the 11th position in the western conference, must be disappointed with their performance as they were the fifth best team in the conference last season and put up a strong fight against the Warriors in the Playoffs semi- finals.
There is no dearth of talent in their team, but they have not been able to deliver as a team. Mike Conley and Marc Gasol need to come up with a huge game against the Clippers if they are to have any chance of winning.
Memphis coach Dave Joerger, who wants a consistent performance from his players on Monday, is positive.
"We can be better," AP quoted Joerger as saying.
"They're sticking together. We knew coming in it was a rough patch to our schedule. ... We want to put out better performances on a consistent basis. Now you need every single win, don't get me wrong, in the West. But to go out and play better and be more who we are on a nightly basis would be good."
Where to watch live
Los Angeles Clippers vs Memphis Grizzlies NBA live game is scheduled for 10:30 pm EST (9 am IST, 3:30 am GMT) start. There is no live TV coverage in India.
US viewers can watch Los Angeles Clippers vs Memphis Grizzlies live on Sportsnet One.
International viewers, including those in India, can watch all the NBA live action by live streaming on NBA Online.
