The second round of the NBA Playoffs has two games scheduled for play Saturday afternoon and evening. The Memphis Grizzlies will host the Oklahoma City Thunder while the Indiana Pacers have the New York Knicks coming into town. Check out Saturday's schedule as one team will lead in their series after the conclusion of Game 3.
Thunder vs, Grizzlies
The Grizzlies have a great chance to take a 2-1 lead in their series. The first two games have been tight and well played. Though both teams possess big guys who play physical basketball, this hasn't turned into a Miami Heat/Chicago Bulls-like matchup. The Thunder are having trouble getting Kevin Durant help and they are struggling to slow down the Grizzlies' big men, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol.
Russell Westbrook has proved his value to the team. Without him, there is no daredevil that will step up, take shots and get points for the Thunder. Durant has no protection and is forced to handle the ball more than usual. Reggie Jackson has been holding it down, but he's no Westbrook. With Westbrook's ability to penetrate, he's able to draw defenders and, eventually, Durant begins to get open looks.
Expect another grueling matchup as the Thunder and Grizzlies tipoff at 5 p.m. ET.
Knicks vs. Pacers
Immediately following the Thunder vs. Grizzlies, the Knicks take their game to Indiana where they will face the Pacers for their Game 3. The Knicks need J.R. Smith to step up his game if they have any chance of winning on the road. The Pacers are another physical team that will force the Knicks' hands and challenge their patience.
Carmelo Anthony has been doing it all for New York, as always, but he needs to better his shooting percentage and become more efficient from the floor. Tyson Chandler is another Knick that has to make more noise as he has completely underplayed to his potential.
Who will lead in this series? Find out as tipoff is at 8 p.m. ET.
