Expectations and Predictions For Spurs Vs. Grizzlies – Western Conference Finals, Game 3

May 21, 2013; San Antonio, TX, USA; San Antonio Spurs forwards Tim Duncan (21) and Kawhi Leonard (2) block a shot by Memphis Grizzlies guard Tony Allen (9) in game two of the Western Conference finals of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at AT

We’re a few hours away from Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals between the San Antonio Spurs and the Memphis Grizzlies.

As usual, we like to have a discussion of the previous game while we preview tonight’s matchup. And instead of sharing it and having this discussion amongst ourselves, we want to share it with you guys and get y’all involved! So Air Alamo’s Lead Editor, Michael Rehome, joined me again to see what we can expect for tonight.

John Diaz: We’ve had three days off since Game 2, and I gotta tell you. I’m still having nightmares about that panic attack inducing fourth quarter. I know these guys were a little tired, but to score only 9 points in the fourth quarter is absurd.

Michael Rehome: You weren’t the only one feeling the panic. I thought early on that we had this game wrapped in the bag when we were up by 18. But as I sat back and realized that, the Spurs tend to play lackadaisical and before we knew it, the Grizzlies made their run that we have seen teams do these playoffs.

May 21, 2013; San Antonio, TX, USA; Memphis Grizzlies forward Zach Randolph (50) has his shot blocked by San Antonio Spurs forward Tiago Splitter (left) in game two of the Western Conference finals of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at AT

JD: Does it worry you at all that Memphis may have figured something out, or was it just the case of the Spurs being tired? Because Duncan single-handedly murdered them in overtime, but that was only since he was rested after being in foul trouble. This team may be on it’s last legs, not only for this season, but maybe this is the Spurs finally becoming old before our eyes. Or am I overreacting?

MR: I don’t think you are overreacting at all. I think towards the end of regulation, Memphis was playing pretty scrappy and the Spurs fell into that trap. That’s where Memphis excels though. Spurs being tired, I believe was also a case. They did make some careless passes and tried to do more than they needed too, which pushed the game into overtime. As you stated, Duncan clearly took over. Memphis is going to have the energy which will be boosted by their fans. We know how games go when teams return home.

JD: Speaking of Memphis returning home. I have this little theory that role players always perform god-like this time of year, but only at home. Quincy Pondexter is a deadly shooter, and with Tayshaun Prince struggling, Q-Pon could end up getting the start. Hollins hasn’t committed to that yet, but is there anyone that worries you heading into Game 3?

MR: Z-Bo. I am surprised by the way he has played the first two games. Game one shooting 1-of-8 from the floor, wow. In game two he shot a little better, but he did look a little frustrated still that his shots were not falling. I think that at home he will feel more at ease and have the game come to him. He may have a break-out game tonight.

JD: Well then let’s get into some predictions. I’m afraid to pick a winner in tonight’s game, because I’m superstitious, but I’ll forgo my superstition for this post. One thing that is clear: If the Spurs win tonight, this series is virtually over. If Memphis wins tonight, then this series might actually shape up to be the war we thought it would be. With all that being said, unless they come out rusty, I can’t see the Spurs losing after having 3 days off. They know this is their chance to insert and twist a knife into the Grizzlies’ heart. Give me the Spurs in a close one, 95-91. And I’ll go a step further with a “bold” prediction and say Tony Parker scores 30 points tonight. You?

MR: That what separates me from you, I’m not afraid to pick a winner, haha. You made some great points. I am going to say that if the Spurs do win, then sweep will surely be on everyone’s mind. Going on with this three days off, I am surprised that the NBA let the Spurs have as many. But back to the question at hand. The Spurs will come out with a big sense of urgency as they did in game three against the Golden State Warriors. What they need to do is shut out the crowd, because we both know it is going to be a hostile environment. I am going to take the Spurs because of the three days off. 102-91.

JD: Thanks again, Michael.

So what do you guys think? Let us know your expectations and predictions in the comments!