OKC @ Memphis, Sponsored By Kevin Durant's Mystery Tattoos

[rayjayjohnson]

http://cdn1.sbnation.com/entry_photo_images/1189342/gyi0064580017_extra_large.jpg

I had no idea he was inked up.

[SAtown]

Tip off went off the refs head lol

[The Gemini Method]

Speaking of tats, have you seen AK47's tat? A whole backpiece

[lefty]

Bukkaking !!!!!


CROFL OKC

[Budkin]

Grizz already up big.

[Spur-Addict]

Boooo Memphis

[ElNono]

OKC mirage going down tonight

[DMC]

This is the game to watch. I think we all knew the Heat would be there in the end.

[ElNono]

Westbrook another turnover, really? :lol

[Spur-Addict]

Nice block by Westbrook

[lefty]

KD overrated
Russell overrated


Scott Brooks underrated

[SAtown]

Didn't someone bring up the ESPN playoff bracket predictor, and it predicted Memphis going all the way to the Finals? It's really not all that impossible anymore

LOL dumb bracket thing on the ESPN website predicting better than the ESPN experts

[lefty]

Didn't someone bring up the ESPN playoff bracket predictor, and it predicted Memphis going all the way to the Finals? It's really not all that impossible anymore

LOL dumb bracket thing on the ESPN website predicting better than the ESPN experts
lol

[lefty]

Before the playoffs started, didn't someone bring up the ESPN playoff bracket predictor, and it predicted Memphis going all the way to the Finals? It's really not all that impossible anymore

LOL dumb bracket thing on the ESPN website predicting better than the ESPN experts
lol

[SAtown]

lol

[DJ Mbenga]

his face is also inked up. oh wait thats acne

[rayjayjohnson]

lol

[Spur-Addict]

KD overrated
Russell overrated


Scott Brooks underrated

I think Brooks waited too long last game to go to Harden over Thabo when they were outright doubling Durant.

[NewJerSpur]

OKC being Durant or Westbrook's team, still to be determined......

[NewJerSpur]

I think Brooks waited too long last game to go to Harden over Thabo when they were outright doubling Durant.

Harden was also the only one still executing on offense and getting other guys involved in OT surprisingly.

[ElNono]

These MEM fuckers couldn't miss against us

[ogait]

Zbo turning it on

[lefty]

I think Brooks waited too long last game to go to Harden over Thabo when they were outright doubling Durant.
true true

[lurker]

Didn't someone bring up the ESPN playoff bracket predictor, and it predicted Memphis going all the way to the Finals? It's really not all that impossible anymore

This is the one I got back then. lol Magic
http://i54.tinypic.com/2w2pwm0.jpg

[DPG21920]

I found a picture of AK47's tat:

http://i186.photobucket.com/albums/x53/Madame_Malfoy/red-dragon.jpg

[Spur-Addict]

Harden was also the only one still executing on offense and getting other guys involved in OT surprisingly.

You can only take so much away. I just hate when coaches don't adjust quick as they should.

[SAtown]

This is the one I got back then. lol Magic


Yep that could have been it actually

LOL Magic

[NewJerSpur]

These MEM fuckers couldn't miss against us

They're still not missing it seems....at least not enough to negate those OKC TO's and bad shot selection.

[DPG21920]

http://static03.mediaite.com/sportsgrid/uploads/2011/05/kirilenkobacktat.jpeg

[Spur-Addict]

OKC fortunate that the Grizz aren't converting some of these turnovers. Fuck you Hollins

[NewJerSpur]

Thought Ibaka slapped someone in the back of the head, lol.

[lefty]

Nate :lmao

[Mugen]

:lol

nate's gonna need two good eyes to make sure hes passing the gatorade out to the right people.

[Spur-Addict]

OKC looks done mentally.

[ElNono]

They're still not missing it seems....at least not enough to negate those OKC TO's and bad shot selection.

Stuff like that Arthur layup... that's what I'm talking about

[NewJerSpur]

Thunder are going to have to find some way to get KD going....maybe be run him off a few screens to break up the double teams.

[blkroadrunners]

Flashback of Nazr's Spur days

[ElNono]

OKC is just bad... but that isn't news... if they don't get freebies they're very beatable...

[jag]

Marc Gasol clowning everyone in the low post.

[lefty]

LOL Nazr and his stone hands

[NewJerSpur]

Stuff like that Arthur layup... that's what I'm talking about

Gotcha'. Wasn't giving you grief, just bringing up some of OKC's problems preventing them from taking advantage.

[DPG21920]

:lmao at Gasol even hitting that bull shit shot after the travel call

[DPG21920]

I can't believe Memphis continues to win with their marginal talent. I really like the way they play and have all year, but this is beyond me.

[NewJerSpur]

Getting ugly.

[ElNono]

This is what bothers me the most about losing to Memphis... OKC was an easy 2nd round opponent...

[ElNono]

Not as easy as the Lakers, but easy... :lol

[LakerHater]

Do the Grizzlies have cheerleaders??

[024]

I can't believe Memphis continues to win with their marginal talent. I really like the way they play and have all year, but this is beyond me.
this is what happens when you play defense.

[Cessation]

I can't believe Memphis continues to win with their marginal talent. I really like the way they play and have all year, but this is beyond me.

I think they are mentally dialed in, more than any team in the playoffs. Every player that gets minutes plays their ass off.

[ElNono]

They execute and play defense better than anybody... the perfect combo for playoff basketball....

[Cessation]

Do the Grizzlies have cheerleaders??

lol I think they too focused, don't want any distractions

[NewJerSpur]

Maynor can score, but Harden is the only real "go-to guy" in that 2nd unit.

[ElNono]

Would you have cheerleaders with ZBo and Tony Allen around? :lol

[jag]

:lol DPG still in denial about Memphis' talent.

[LakerHater]

lol I think they too focused, don't want any distractions
uz they had sum dude on a wheel during TO!?

[DPG21920]

Jag, they aren't that talented. That doesn't mean they aren't playing well, it's just the facts.

[ElNono]

"Where's the weed?" ZBo + cheerleader = disaster

[NewJerSpur]

Randolph getting the call because Collison stood him up even before the reach in....got to love it.

[Mugen]

Grizzlies have the two best low post scorers left in the playoffs with Z-Bo and Gasol.

They're arguably the best defensive team left as well.

Basically they're the last remaining team that plays "playoff basketball" so not really that surpised.

[NewJerSpur]

LOL Nazr and his stone hands

[Spur-Addict]

OKC making so many mental errors

[DPG21920]

:lmao look at Haddadi with all that talent.

[jag]

Jag, they aren't that talented. That doesn't mean they aren't playing well, it's just the facts.

:lol "facts"

lol you trolling the shit outa me because there's no way you believe Randolph, Gasol, Conley and Mayo aren't talented

[DPG21920]

:lol "facts"

lol you trolling the shit outa me because there's no way you believe Randolph, Gasol, Conley and Mayo aren't talented

That isn't a very talented team. They don't even have a top 25 player on their team and their second option probably isn't top 40.


They lack talentFACT.

[Cessation]

uz they had sum dude on a wheel during TO!?

Yeah, wtf was that guy in a wheel about, did he get paid to do that? I could do cartwheels in a wheel too...guess basketball is all the entertainment these memphis fans need.

[NewJerSpur]

OKC making so many mental errors

Look mighty rattled.

[jag]

That isn't a very talented team. They don't even have a top 25 player on their team and their second option probably isn't top 40.


They lack talentFACT.

Please try to convince me again how much more talented the Spurs are.

Randolph currently has more talent in his ghetto ass pinky than anyone on the Spurs old, banged up, 3-point shooting roster.

[ElNono]

Haddadi probably has more blocks than Bonner + Blair combined these playoffs...

[ogait]

There's no denying any more than the Grizzlies are better than anyone had envisioned.

I wonder how they will work out when Rudy Gay returns. Will he be happy playing a secondary role to Zbo on offence and busting his ass on defence like Allen and Batier do. After all that's what make them successful.

[ElNono]

top 3 Spurs are more talented, IMO... the problem is that the drop is immense after that... Grizz is more balanced across the board...

[Giuseppe]

See, 8 doesn't seem as bad now, huh?

[jag]

Haddadi probably has more blocks than Bonner + Blair combined these playoffs...

Doesn't count. The NBA Talent Ranking Officers don't think very highly of him.

[DPG21920]

Please try to convince me again how much more talented the Spurs are.

Randolph currently has more talent in his ghetto ass pinky than anyone on the Spurs old, banged up, 3-point shooting roster.

They are a very good team, that doesn't mean they are super talented. The Pistons weren't the most talented team, but they won with balance and defense. But they even had top 25 players, Memphis doesn't.

[ElNono]

There's no denying any more than the Grizzlies are better than anyone had envisioned.

I wonder how they will work out when Rudy Gay returns. Will he be happy playing a secondary role to Zbo on offence and busting his ass on defence like Allen and Batier do. After all that's what make them successful.

A chip like Gay actually allows them to get better. If Rudy doesn't want to mold into a team player, he's a great trade asset to keep building around this core...

[Red Hawk #21]

Thunder gettin whooped.

[DPG21920]

Doesn't count. The NBA Talent Ranking Officers don't think very highly of him.

That is because he is the worst player in the league arguably.

[Mugen]

top 3 Spurs are more talented, IMO... the problem is that the drop is immense after that... Grizz is more balanced across the board...

meh, it's a sad day when people that argue Z-Bo > any of the spurs big 3 have a pretty legit case.

[LakerHater]

See, 8 doesn't seem as bad now, huh?
Nope, cuz theres 0

[Spur-Addict]

Mayo with the bullshit

[NewJerSpur]

LOL. Thunder can't even trap right now.

[Spurtacus]

Durantulas getting exterminated in the first half.

[Red Hawk #21]

Much needed 3 for Cook.

[4>0rings]

This Grizzlie team is playing out of their minds, it's probably because of all their talent. Hell, the very talented Rudy Gay isn't even playing, that just goes to show their depth at talent.

[Red Hawk #21]

Cook with another 3!

[Bill_Brasky]

That isn't a very talented team. They don't even have a top 25 player on their team and their second option probably isn't top 40.


They lack talentFACT.

They are extremely talented defensively and get out and run off turnovers, then execute their half court offense beautifully. They are also athletic as shit.

They're fucking talented.

[jag]

top 3 Spurs are more talented, IMO... the problem is that the drop is immense after that... Grizz is more balanced across the board...

The top 3 Spurs have the potential to be more talented. But they are aging and constantly injured so their potential isn't translating to on the court production.

The young grizzlies players are actually able to do something with their collective, slightly less potential talent. That means a lot more (as you can see).

[rayjayjohnson]

grizz or mavs?

i still think mavs.

[NewJerSpur]

If OKC can defend the PnR and cut off the lane to the extra pass out of the post they can possibly get it under 10 by the half, especially with Westbrook and durant back on the floor.

[Cessation]

Damn, mavs won't know what hit them, when grizz get a hold of them. I think they have a good chance to beat them.

[DPG21920]

Playing well does not equal more talent.

By that logic, Zbo>Durant?

[4>0rings]

lol @ Grizz going to the WCF and likely to the Finals.... :lmao :lmao :lmao

Mayans... 2012... just sayin'

[Spur-Addict]

More Harden please

[jag]

Michael Jordan is currently much more "talented" than Gasol. I wonder how that would actually impact NBA games.

[NewJerSpur]

Perk still never thinks he ever commits a foul.

[Giuseppe]

More Harden please

Bend over. I'll give ya a f'in' Harden.

[Red Hawk #21]

lol perkins is a moron

[Spur-Addict]

Perkins may kill what little momentum they had going.

[DPG21920]

That isn't the argument. No one is saying the talent is winning, what I'm saying is that Memphis is winning with marginal talent.

That isn't a knock, it's the truth. Why does it make you angry that Memphis isn't that talented :lol?

[Cessation]

lol meltdown
lol perkins trade=thunder contender

[Spur-Addict]

Bend over. I'll give ya a f'in' Harden.

http://i558.photobucket.com/albums/ss25/09ckarkoska/nigga_you_gay.png

[jag]

ZBo vs Durant? Lets argue current ZBo vs Duncan. Current ZBo vs Manu.

[NewJerSpur]

No way in hell Durant can guard Z-Bo. Put KD on Gasol if you're going to go small, at least he's more apt to bail you out with a fade or hook. Need Collison to bang with Randolph imo.

[Cessation]

That isn't the argument. No one is saying the talent is winning, what I'm saying is that Memphis is winning with marginal talent.

That isn't a knock, it's the truth. Why does it make you angry that Memphis isn't that talented :lol?


I agree, grizz are playing more focused, smarter, and harder than their opponents, thereby overachieving.

[DJ Mbenga]

cook is saving the thunder from a blowout

[jag]

That isn't the argument. No one is saying the talent is winning, what I'm saying is that Memphis is winning with marginal talent.

That isn't a knock, it's the truth. Why does it make you angry that Memphis isn't that talented :lol?

Doesn't make me angry. It's just a weak and incredibly subjective argument that losers make after watching their team lose. "I can't believe we lost! Our team is still more talented"

This whole argument started because you think the Spurs are currently more talented than the Griz. It's a loser's argument.

[Red Hawk #21]

Westbrick!

[NewJerSpur]

Good decision switching KD to Gasol and Collison to Gasol. Maybe the Thunder can FINALLY get a run going.

[DPG21920]

The sum is greater than the parts for Memphis. That isn't a knock.

If you really think Conley/Mayo is more talented than Parker or Ginobili you should be terminated.

[Banzai]

If Memphis meets the Mavs..home court will definitely help the Mavs.

[NewJerSpur]

Wow Thunder.

[Spur-Addict]

More mental mistakes

[benefactor]

Another T. Looks like the league wants the farm team in if the Lakers can't make it.

[DPG21920]

Doesn't make me angry. It's just a weak and incredibly subjective argument that losers make after watching their team lose. "I can't believe we lost! Our team is still more talented"

This whole argument started because you think the Spurs are currently more talented than the Griz. It's a loser's argument.

:lol No, you are just c-sucking Memphis because they beat the Spurs. You are overreacting.

If Memphis was so talented, where have they been in recent years? They have had everyone except Zbo. With all that stacked talent they couldn't make the playoffs before :lol?

With the Spurs lack of talent they continued to make the playoffs and beat teams like the Mavs? Hmmmm.

[Mugen]

If Memphis meets the Mavs..home court will definitely help the Mavs.

home court hasn't done shit for the Spurs/Thunder so far tho Zai.

[Bill_Brasky]

The sum is greater than the parts for Memphis. That isn't a knock.

If you really think Conley/Mayo is more talented than Parker or Ginobili you should be terminated.

If you think Bonner/RJ is more talented than Arthur/Battier you should be terminated.

[Red Hawk #21]

Thunder playing hard...

[benefactor]

Single digits.

[Cessation]

wow grizz last in league in 3pts made and attempted, they are definetly are oldschool, and anti-spur as you get

[4>0rings]

http://www.mypivots.com/site/uf/11384/hindenburg.jpg

[NewJerSpur]

Damn Westbrook is shooting a lot. I like his aggressiveness, but if you get into the paint and it's packed you've got to kick it back out. He had someone open on that baseline jumper that came up short. Overall, I'd rather him be aggressive than not so....

[DPG21920]

:lmao Bonner is a choking vagina and so is RJ.

Has Shane ever been a 20PPG scorer? Has Arthur ever not been a bench warmer? RJ has been to the finals with NJ. Overall, RJ's talent>Shane's. Sorry. That doesn't mean Shane didn't outplay RJ. They aren't mutually exclusive.

[Mugen]

Thunder really need a point guard next year that can keep the ball out of Westbrook's hands.

They'd be a far superior team if they didnt have to rely on his decision making.

[jag]

The sum is greater than the parts for Memphis. That isn't a knock.

If you really think Conley/Mayo is more talented than Parker or Ginobili you should be terminated.

There's a reason I haven't said that. Because it's ridiculous.

I think when you stack the Spurs roster against the Griz roster, the Griz are currently more talented. It's obvious to everyone except Spurs fans in denial.

The funny thing about arguing "talent" is that it's so subjective it's the perfect loser's argument.

[Banzai]

Grizzlies falling apart.

[Red Hawk #21]

Westbrick is attacking the rim.

[4>0rings]

:lmao Bonner is a choking vagina and so is RJ.

Has Shane ever been a 20PPG scorer? Has Arthur ever not been a bench warmer? RJ has been to the finals with NJ. Overall, RJ's talent>Shane's. Sorry. That doesn't mean Shane didn't outplay RJ. They aren't mutually exclusive.
:lmao:lmao:lmao

[Red Hawk #21]

Thank you very much, Dick. - Ernie Johnson haha

[DPG21920]

There's a reason I haven't said that. Because it's ridiculous.

I think when you stack the Spurs roster against the Griz roster, the Griz are currently more talented. It's obvious to everyone except Spurs fans in denial.

The funny thing about arguing "talent" is that it's so subjective it's the perfect loser's argument.

It's not subjective. I can prove it by every measurable statistic unless you thing actual stats are "subjective".

[NewJerSpur]

Ticky tack call imo.

[ogait]

Memphis always seems to do a good play after a timeout. That's the sign of a well coached team.

[Red Hawk #21]

Westbrick is getting to the rim at will.

[Bill_Brasky]

:lmao Bonner is a choking vagina and so is RJ.

Has Shane ever been a 20PPG scorer? Has Arthur ever not been a bench warmer? RJ has been to the finals with NJ. Overall, RJ's talent>Shane's. Sorry. That doesn't mean Shane didn't outplay RJ. They aren't mutually exclusive.

You cherry picked, and I was just showing you how ridiculous of a tactic it was.

Battier is so much better than RJ, btw. He's plays defense, and that alone is worth more than RJ has ever brought to the table anywhere he's been.

And you arguing that a finals appearance makes someone more talented defeats your whole point that "Just because someone gets far in the playoffs doesn't mean they're talented".

[benefactor]

Don't know why the Thunder ever stop attacking the Grizz. It's the only way they can beat them.

[jag]

There's a reason I haven't said that. Because it's ridiculous.

I think when you stack the Spurs roster against the Griz roster, the Griz are currently more talented. It's obvious to everyone except Spurs fans in denial.

The funny thing about arguing "talent" is that it's so subjective it's the perfect loser's argument.


:lmao Bonner is a choking vagina and so is RJ.

Has Shane ever been a 20PPG scorer? Has Arthur ever not been a bench warmer? RJ has been to the finals with NJ. Overall, RJ's talent>Shane's. Sorry. That doesn't mean Shane didn't outplay RJ. They aren't mutually exclusive.

Bringing choking and former 20 ppg scorers into the argument is a perfect example.

[Red Hawk #21]

So the Grizzlies do have a weakness after all...

[NewJerSpur]

Thunder collectively saying: "Ta' hell with Durant's jumper at the top of the key, time to drive it down their throats."

[Bill_Brasky]

Awesome quarter from the Thunder, btw.

[hitmanyr2k]

If Memphis was so talented, where have they been in recent years? They have had everyone except Zbo. With all that stacked talent they couldn't make the playoffs before :lol?

With the Spurs lack of talent they continued to make the playoffs and beat teams like the Mavs? Hmmmm.

Common sense says they've been rebuilding with a new coach. They didn't have Tony Allen, Shane Battier last year....you know, good defensive players that actually make a difference. Their coach is only in his 2nd season with this group. You act like they've had this same group of guys for 3+ years or something.

The Spurs have had the same core of guys and the same coach for god knows how long and you're comparing them to a Memphis team and a coach that's barely been together 2 seasons?

[benefactor]

6pt lead

[Spur-Addict]

Gasol pushed Collison

[DPG21920]

Player A:

9.6PPG / 4.7REB / 2AST / 1STL / 1BLK

Player B:

16.4PPG / 5REB / 2.7AST / .8STL / .4BLK

[jag]

It's not subjective. I can prove it by every measurable statistic unless you thing actual stats are "subjective".

Please show me Duncan's stats that prove he's currently more talented than either Gasol or Randolph.

[benefactor]

So the Grizzlies do have a weakness after all...
It's always been a weakness. It's just that the Thunder tend to go through long stretches where they dribble out the shot clock and take tons of bad shots.

[DPG21920]

You cherry picked, and I was just showing you how ridiculous of a tactic it was.

Battier is so much better than RJ, btw. He's plays defense, and that alone is worth more than RJ has ever brought to the table anywhere he's been.

And you arguing that a finals appearance makes someone more talented defeats your whole point that "Just because someone gets far in the playoffs doesn't mean they're talented".

:lol Except RJ was a key player on the finals team in NJ and RJ was a solid defender.

[jag]

:lol Except RJ was a key player on the finals team in NJ and RJ was a solid defender.

Living in the past - when the big 3 were the big 3.

[NewJerSpur]

Common sense says they've been rebuilding with a new coach. They didn't have Tony Allen, Shane Battier last year....you know, good defensive players that actually make a difference. Their coach is only in his 2nd season with this group. You act like they've had this same group of guys for 3+ years or something.

The Spurs have had the same core of guys and the same coach for god knows how long and you're comparing them to a Memphis team and a coach that's barely been together 2 seasons?

Hitman out this mofo.


Gasol pushed Collison

Based on the last series, safe to assume in Memphis anything goes........for Memphis.

[benefactor]

Pretty dumb foul by Conley.

[DPG21920]

Bringing choking and former 20 ppg scorers into the argument is a perfect example.

So you want the stats from this year for all their players and their rankings?

Also, you never answered my question. If Memphis is so talented and they have had the same roster sans Zbo, why couldn't they make the playoffs before?

[Red Hawk #21]

Arthur with the Block of the night tbh

[WeNeedLength]

Westbrook is being the ballhog Durant is supposed to be.

[InRareForm]

that pass by vasquez looked ginobilish

[Bill_Brasky]

Player A:

9.6PPG / 4.7REB / 2AST / 1STL / 1BLK

Player B:

16.4PPG / 5REB / 2.7AST / .8STL / .4BLK

You contradicted yourselfPERIOD

[Cessation]

Talent is just a measure of natural athletism or innate mental fortitude. I don't think it includes skill/experience.

[Spur-Addict]

Yes, make these FT's

[NewJerSpur]

What's up with all these missed layups the last 2 days? Artest has started a trend, LOL. Thunder back in it.

[DJ Mbenga]

last 10 possesisons have basically been fts'

[benefactor]

17pt lead to 4. Almost like the end of last game.

[NewJerSpur]

Grizz on the other end of the TO's all of a sudden with Vasqez/Smith in.

[Spurtacus]

Nice close to the half.

Taking bets on Westbrook or Westbrick for the 4th quarter.

[Red Hawk #21]

Good job by the Thunder to close out the half.

[jag]

So you want the stats from this year for all their players and their rankings?

Also, you never answered my question. If Memphis is so talented and they have had the same roster sans Zbo, why couldn't they make the playoffs before?

Hitman answered your question perfectly.

Again, arguing "talent" is a joke. I find it hard to believe you can't figure out why.

[lefty]

Those refs suck

[Banzai]

My prediction...Grizzlies will lose this game.

[hitmanyr2k]

What's up with all these missed layups the last 2 days? Artest has started a trend, LOL. Thunder back in it.

The Spurs made the same kind of runs against the Grizz after getting down big. They're a young team that will go through lulls. I expect Memphis to put it away when it counts. When everyone was predicting OKC in 5 I told you guys Memphis matches up well with these guys inside and out. I'm not shocked by how well they're playing.

[Bill_Brasky]

My prediction...Grizzlies will lose this game.

I could see it happening.......they are about to get out-Grizzlied(give up a pretty decent lead early then fight back and win a close one).

[benefactor]

My prediction...Grizzlies will lose this game.
If they do the series is over. They can't go back to even with 2 of the next 3 in OKC.

[jag]

I think when you stack the Spurs roster against the Griz roster, the Griz are currently more talented. It's obvious to everyone except Spurs fans in denial.

The funny thing about arguing "talent" is that it's so subjective it's the perfect loser's argument.

[DPG21920]

Please show me Duncan's stats that prove he's currently more talented than either Gasol or Randolph.

Duncan:

13PPG / 9REB / 2.7AST / 2BLK / 28MPG

PER: 21.9 / WS: 7.7 / DWS: 4

Gasol:

12PPG / 7REB / 2.5AST / 1.7BLK / 32MPG

PER: 16.8 / WS: 7.9 / DWS: 3.9

So in less minutes Duncan out scored, rebounded, assisted and blocked Marc. His advanced metrics were better, except in a few categories where it was even.

To put that in perspective, Tim in his worst year was 14th in the league in PER, while Marc was 60th.

It's clear Tim, even now, is more talented than Gasol.

[TampaDude]

Wow...22-9 run to close out the half...pucker time for the Grizz.

[Cessation]

Those are some fine ass cuties, lefty. Much better than that purple and piss eyesore you had before. You off the washed up lakeshow bandwagon yet? lol

[NewJerSpur]

The Spurs made the same kind of runs against the Grizz after getting down big. They're a young team that will go through lulls. I expect Memphis to put it away when it counts. When everyone was predicting OKC in 5 I told you guys Memphis matches up well with these guys inside and out. I'm not shocked by how well they're playing.

Good call, but they're going to have to adjust to Westbrook's penetration and when they do Durant and others will open up.....the question is, when they do, will he pass the ball or start forcing it like he did in Game 3? That's what i think the series may boil down to.

And where've you been for the Chicago games?!

[ogait]

Talent is just a measure of natural athletism or innate mental fortitude. I don't think it includes skill/experience.

Talent represents no more than 50 % of what can be done in a basketball field.

look at Memphis and everyone would say a few months ago that Gay and Mayo were their more talented perimeter players. Now one is in the shelf and the other reduced to a secondary role and guys "less talented" like Allen and Battier are making Memphis go where those two never could.

[Giuseppe]

It's clear Tim, even now, is more talented than Gasol.

8 withstanding.

tee, hee.

[Red Hawk #21]

If the Grizzlies win the championship they're gunna be a lot of angry fans tbh...

[Banzai]

http://img142.imageshack.us/img142/7565/negrodamus.jpg

[DPG21920]

Common sense says they've been rebuilding with a new coach. They didn't have Tony Allen, Shane Battier last year....you know, good defensive players that actually make a difference. Their coach is only in his 2nd season with this group. You act like they've had this same group of guys for 3+ years or something.

The Spurs have had the same core of guys and the same coach for god knows how long and you're comparing them to a Memphis team and a coach that's barely been together 2 seasons?

They have had their core that Jag mentioned for numerous years and did shit. Couldn't even make the playoffs. Zbo is the only addition.

Who cares if they didn't have Battier and Allen who are marginally talented players. They had Rudy Gay (who is much better than them both in their place compared to now).

What does the fact the Spurs have been together longer have to do with talent? Talent is not gained by playing together. Talent is there if you have it. Jag didn't say the Grizz played together longer, he said they are a talented team compared to other playoff teams. I said they aren't.

[DPG21920]

Hitman answered your question perfectly.

Again, arguing "talent" is a joke. I find it hard to believe you can't figure out why.

No, he didn't.

[NewJerSpur]

Marc Gasol still outplaying Pau.....emotional breakup withstanding.

[Cessation]

It's becoming clear, memphis are not winning due to their superior athletic talent. I think their coach is very underrated, tbh. He get's his guys fired up and playing the right way.

[jag]

Duncan:

13PPG / 9REB / 2.7AST / 2BLK / 28MPG

PER: 21.9 / WS: 7.7 / DWS: 4

Gasol:

12PPG / 7REB / 2.5AST / 1.7BLK / 32MPG

PER: 16.8 / WS: 7.9 / DWS: 3.9

So in less minutes Duncan out scored, rebounded, assisted and blocked Marc. His advanced metrics were better, except in a few categories where it was even.

To put that in perspective, Tim in his worst year was 14th in the league in PER, while Marc was 60th.

It's clear Tim, even now, is more talented than Gasol.

Do you not realize how close they are in "talent"?
They evened each other out when they went head-2-head. Gasol outplayed Duncan multiple times when they matched up against each other.

Now please post Duncan vs Randolph stats.

[Bill_Brasky]

Duncan:

13PPG / 9REB / 2.7AST / 2BLK / 28MPG

PER: 21.9 / WS: 7.7 / DWS: 4

Gasol:

12PPG / 7REB / 2.5AST / 1.7BLK / 32MPG

PER: 16.8 / WS: 7.9 / DWS: 3.9

So in less minutes Duncan out scored, rebounded, assisted and blocked Marc. His advanced metrics were better, except in a few categories where it was even.

To put that in perspective, Tim in his worst year was 14th in the league in PER, while Marc was 60th.

It's clear Tim, even now, is more talented than Gasol.

Now I agree with you here. Tim, even at his age, I would pick over Gasol any day of the week, twice on Sundays.

Overall though, the Grizz are more talented than their Spur counterparts at every position except for the big 3. That is my argument, and I'm stickin' to it.

[jag]

They have had their core that Jag mentioned for numerous years and did shit. Couldn't even make the playoffs. Zbo is the only addition.

Who cares if they didn't have Battier and Allen who are marginally talented players. They had Rudy Gay (who is much better than them both in their place compared to now).

What does the fact the Spurs have been together longer have to do with talent? Talent is gained by playing together. Talent is there if you have it. Jag didn't say the Grizz played together longer, he said they are a talented team compared to other playoff teams. I said they aren't.

I said they're more talented than the Spurs. You said they aren't.

You're in denial about losing 4-2

[DPG21920]

Do you not realize how close they are in "talent"?
They evened each other out when they went head-2-head. Gasol outplayed Duncan multiple times when they matched up against way other.

Now please post Duncan vs Randolph stats.

So you admit the stats clearly say Tim was more talented.

Good start.

[DPG21920]

I said in general I am surprised MEM is winning with marginal talent. You brought up the Spurs.

[Cessation]

Seriously, why are there no cheerleaders? It's a sausage factory out there. :cry:cry

[Bill_Brasky]

And do you think that back in '03 when the Spurs were shittin' on the league, people didn't say "Ginobili? Parker? Jackson? Who the fuck are these guys? We're so much more talented than them and they still beat us!"

[jag]

Now I agree with you here. Tim, even at his age, I would pick over Gasol any day of the week, twice on Sundays.

Overall though, the Grizz are more talented than their Spur counterparts at every position except for the big 3. That is my argument, and I'm stickin' to it.

Duncan is more talented than Gasol for the intangibles he brings. But when you compare the rosters overall, the Grizz are a more talented team.

[jag]

And do you think that back in '03 when the Spurs were shittin' on the league, people didn't say "Ginobili? Parker? Jackson? Who the fuck are these guys? We're so much more talented than them and they still beat us!"

:lol losers always argue things like "talent". It's all they have left. Suns fan still talks about being more "talented" through the '00's

[DPG21920]

Now I agree with you here. Tim, even at his age, I would pick over Gasol any day of the week, twice on Sundays.

Overall though, the Grizz are more talented than their Spur counterparts at every position except for the big 3. That is my argument, and I'm stickin' to it.

Top talent is all that matters in my argument. Tim/Manu/TP are so far ahead of Zbo/Marc/Conley with regards to talent that it's not even funny. Hill/RJ/Blair/Bonner/Neal are just as comparable if not more talented than Battier/Allen/OJ/Aurthur...Now, their collection of guys played 10x better than the Spurs and they fit very well together.

I never said the Grizz didn't out play the Spurs or anyone else. I never said their guys didn't step it up. I never said that their style isn't more conducive to winning in the playoffs than the Spurs.

What I did say is that guys like Jag overreact and suck off Memphis because they beat the Spurs with regards to talent. They have a bunch of marginally talented guys on their team outside of Zbo who is the only boarderline top 25 player on their team.

Beyond that, I can prove without a doubt with no subjectivity that they lack talent overall compared to every other playoff team that is winning.

[jag]

Top talent is all that matters in my argument.



:lol

[Cessation]

Also grizz don't have any defensive liabilities in their main rotations guys, unlike the spurs, who have tons, rj, blair, bonner, neal. Making the spurs having to overrotate. Remember bonner trying front zbo(lol) and fucking up the whole spurs defence.

[Ghazi]

DenialPG

also was wrong about dem Mavericks :smokin

[jag]

Arguing "talent" :lmao

[Bill_Brasky]

:lol losers always argue things like "talent". It's all they have left. Suns fan still talks about being more "talented" through the '00's

It's really a very subjective argument, tbh....some teams are just flat out better. You can call it talent, skill, whatever, but fact of the matter is that this Memphis team plays the right way, and it's something our Spurs need to get back to doing....

[DPG21920]

:lol losers always argue things like "talent". It's all they have left. Suns fan still talks about being more "talented" through the '00's

Terrible argument as I have mentioned before. The Suns did have talent, maybe more than the Spurs, but it was at least close. Memphis's talent isn't close. Sorry.

The reason your analogy is terrible is because the Suns were a perennial playoff team. They kept losing to the NBA champs.

Memphis, with all the talent you claim (less only Zbo) couldn't and hasn't made the playoffs in years.

It's not even close to the same argument.

[NewJerSpur]

Game on.

[DPG21920]

It's really a very subjective argument, tbh....some teams are just flat out better. You can call it talent, skill, whatever, but fact of the matter is that this Memphis team plays the right way, and it's something our Spurs need to get back to doing....

I never said that MEM played the wrong way. I said they lack top shelf talent.

[NewJerSpur]

Damn, you can't breathe on Randolph in MEM when he goes into Tazmanian Devil mode.

[Bill_Brasky]

I never said that MEM played the wrong way. I said they lack top shelf talent.

Defensive talent is still talent.

[DPG21920]

Again, no one including me, is saying you can't win without having top shelf talent. It's just been pretty much non-existent in the NBA when it comes to titles.

Acting like Memphis is some super talented roster just because they are winning is dumb is my point.

[InRareForm]

ZBO going to take over. he mad!

[4>0rings]

I'm still laughing at the RJ is better than Battier comment.

[Bill_Brasky]

Damn, you can't breathe on Randolph in MEM when he goes into Tazmanian Devil mode.

Yeah. Because of their rep of being more physical, MEM is able to get away with a little bit more.

[NewJerSpur]

Tony Allen with the clearout no call.....but i'd rather him look for his offense if I'm OKC and take the rest of the team out of their's.

[jag]

It's really a very subjective argument, tbh....some teams are just flat out better. You can call it talent, skill, whatever, but fact of the matter is that this Memphis team plays the right way, and it's something our Spurs need to get back to doing....

That's why it can be argued for days. It's also meaningless. Then you can start arguing top players talent vs role players. It's a joke.

You can interpret "talent" in a variety of subjective ways. I say OJ Mayo has more "talent" than Tony Parker ever had, but Parker has worked harder and has the smarts and mental fortitude that have made him so successful. Mayo hasn't show. that so far.

Arguing talent is a joke.

[Bill_Brasky]

I like OKC's strategy right now. Get out and run, rack up the fouls on Memphis, get to the line a lot and go for and-1's.

[NewJerSpur]

Yeah. Because of their rep of being more physical, MEM is able to get away with a little bit more.

Terrible when he's barrelling into the defender's chest.

Durant got bailed out on the foul call trying to go 1-on-4.

[Bill_Brasky]

That's why it can be argued for days. It's also meaningless. Then you can start arguing top players talent vs role players. It's a joke.

You can interpret "talent" in a variety of subjective ways. I say OJ Mayo has more "talent" than Tony Parker ever had, but Parker has worked harder and has the smarts and mental fortitude that have made him so successful. Mayo hasn't show. that so far.

Arguing talent is a joke.

Very true.....let's get this thread back on track.

[Spur-Addict]

OHhh Shit

[Spurtacus]

Someone make me a gif of that Durant dunk. Sick.

[InRareForm]

Wow durant

[jag]

Again, no one including me, is saying you can't win without having top shelf talent. It's just been pretty much non-existent in the NBA when it comes to titles.

Acting like Memphis is some super talented roster just because they are winning is dumb is my point.

Not acting like that. The lakers are the most talented team in the NBA with the Heat right behind them.

Are the Griz more talented than the Spurs?

Yes or no.

[NewJerSpur]

Even after the dunk, KD gets back on defense in transition, wow.

[DPG21920]

Defensive talent is still talent.

I'm including that in my assessment. Memphis was ranked 13th in PPG with 97.60 and SA was ranked 14th with 97.98. SA was ranked 12th in OPPFG with .456% and MEM was ranked 14th with .457%. MEM was tied for 10th in DEF EFF with 102.5 and SA was 11th with 102.8.

Point is that even in SA's worst year they compared favorably with MEM on that end. MEM is playing great, but beyond themselves. That isn't a knock and doesn't change the fact they kicked the shit out of the Spurs. I never argued that.

I simply said they aren't that talented. It hasn't prevented them from winning though, which is what Jag is arguing.

[TheKingOfMIA6]

sick dunk by durant

[Bill_Brasky]

So is anybody gonna try to contest Gasol's jumpers?

[TampaDude]

Even after the dunk, KD gets back on defense in transition, wow.

Should've been and 1 there. KD was clearly fouled on that dunk.

[DPG21920]

Not acting like that. The lakers are the most talented team in the NBA with the Heat right behind them.

Are the Griz more talented than the Spurs?

Yes or no.

No.

[Spur-Addict]

Yeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah!!!!

[TheKingOfMIA6]

westbrook finaly makes a shot

[TampaDude]

...and just like that, the 18-point Grizzlies lead has evaporated...

[NewJerSpur]

Should've been and 1 there. KD was clearly fouled on that dunk.

:tu

Z-Bo got'em.

[jag]

No.

:lol we will resume this in another thread on another day

[Spur-Addict]

Is Charles showering in that waterfall?

[Bill_Brasky]

Is Charles showering in that waterfall?

crofl Ernie's reaction

[Cessation]

I'm pretty sure grizz have seen teams make runs before, if they didn't get rattled playing against a vet team like the spurs, I doubt these thunder pups will. Still think memphis takes this, since they'll make a tougher matchup for the mavs. Can you imagine cuban winning a championship? Mav trolls will go ballistic, the afore mentioned "invasion" might be come a reality.

[hitmanyr2k]

They have had their core that Jag mentioned for numerous years and did shit. Couldn't even make the playoffs. Zbo is the only addition.

Well when you have a shit for brains coach it doesn't help :lol . I've had to watch the Bulls get coached by Vinny the Negro the last 2 seasons. Trust me, I know what a good coach can do for a group of guys who have lost their way.


Who cares if they didn't have Battier and Allen who are marginally talented players. They had Rudy Gay (who is much better than them both in their place compared to now).

Battier and Allen are marginally talented offensively but defensively it's another story and that goes a long way in the playoffs when you have to face talented offensive players like Ginobili. Spurs fans should know this shit. I bet you'd give your left arm to have prime Bowen back to help that horrific Spurs defense. And wasn't it Battier who hit that clutch three to seal Game 1 over the Spurs? Dude may not be the most talented offensive player but he hits big shots. His experience and defense helps.


What does the fact the Spurs have been together longer have to do with talent? Talent is not gained by playing together. Talent is there if you have it. Jag didn't say the Grizz played together longer, he said they are a talented team compared to other playoff teams. I said they aren't.

The Grizz are a talented team but they're just young and raw. And it matters that they've been together a short period of time because even the greatest talent doesn't mean shit without chemistry and a good coach who can make those pieces work together. So far Lionel Hollins is making it work.

[Bill_Brasky]

Fuckin Mayo!

[NewJerSpur]

Why double Z-Bo there?

[Banzai]

http://www.threadbombing.com/data/media/39/tumblr_lkparjgqUr1qzq52eo1_500.png (http://www.threadbombing.com/details.php?image_id=5503)

[jag]

...let's get this thread back on track.

:corn:

[DPG21920]

Memphis Players PER Rank this season:

ZBO: 13th
Tony Allen: 50th
Rudy Gay: 58th (injured)
Gasol: 74th
Conley: 103rd
Arthur: 108th
Mayo: 211
Young: 216

When comparing PER in the same year and in the same league, it's a good tool to use.

But I digress...

[TampaDude]

Wow...awesome pass by Durant there... :lol

[NewJerSpur]

Durant came close to a double dribble before that TO....good defense by MEM.

[hitmanyr2k]

I'm loving the defense in this game. A lot of contact is being allowed. I just hope the refs keep it consistent and don't start going ticky tack with either team.

[NewJerSpur]

Nice job of not settling for the jumper on Westbrook's part.

[ElNono]

I just flipped back and it's a close game? wtf?

[Spur-Addict]

Yeeeeaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaah

[TampaDude]

OKC finally takes the lead!

[Banzai]

I'm loving the defense in this game. A lot of contact is being allowed. I just hope the refs keep it consistent and don't start going ticky tack with either team.

http://www.threadbombing.com/data/media/14/Blade_WTF.gif (http://www.threadbombing.com/details.php?image_id=5508):lol

[NewJerSpur]

Where was the foul?

[jag]

ZBo looked very talented on that repost, tbh

[Spur-Addict]

Good D Westbrook

[hitmanyr2k]

http://www.threadbombing.com/data/media/14/Blade_WTF.gif (http://www.threadbombing.com/details.php?image_id=5508):lol

That was my reaction watching the Bulls in the 4th qtr last night :lol

[NewJerSpur]

Memphis fans want the refs to throw the game.

[Spur-Addict]

Memphis feelin' the nerves!

[DPG21920]

Well when you have a shit for brains coach it doesn't help :lol . I've had to watch the Bulls get coached by Vinny the Negro the last 2 seasons. Trust me, I know what a good coach can do for a group of guys who have lost their way.

Except the Bulls made the playoffs with their bad coach. Why couldn't Memphis with all of their talent?




Battier and Allen are marginally talented offensively but defensively it's another story and that goes a long way in the playoffs when you have to face talented offensive players like Ginobili. Spurs fans should know this shit. I bet you'd give your left arm to have prime Bowen back to help that horrific Spurs defense. And wasn't it Battier who hit that clutch three to seal Game 1 over the Spurs? Dude may not be the most talented offensive player but he hits big shots. His experience and defense helps.

I posted the defensive metrics between the two teams. Now, don't get me wrong, I'm not saying Allen isn't a way better defender than anyone on the team. But while Battier is pretty good, he isn't a great defender any more (still way better than that sack of crap RJ). I agree their style is more conducive to winning in the playoffs. I never argued against that, but that is not the argument. The overall talent of their roster is. They are winning with playoff style basketball with marginal overall talent.




The Grizz are a talented team but they're just young and raw. And it matters that they've been together a short period of time because even the greatest talent doesn't mean shit without chemistry and a good coach who can make those pieces work together. So far Lionel Hollins is making it work.

I never said they weren't talented. I said they are marginally talented, especially for a playoff team that is winning. Many teams have made the playoffs with talent and bad coaching.

[NewJerSpur]

Sefalosha got fouled on that 3, but the refs didn't call it because he can't shoot, lol.

[ElNono]

You two still arguing :lol

[TheKingOfMIA6]

Sefalosha got fouled on that 3, but the refs didn't call it because he can't shoot, lol.
that was aclear fool too u can see that