KJG Top 30: Mike Conley’s Top 10 Games of 2012-2013
By Chris Philip
May 15, 2013; Oklahoma City, OK, USA; Memphis Grizzlies point guard Mike Conley (11) and Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Reggie Jackson (15) wait for play to resume during game five of the second round of the 2013 NBA Playoffs at Chesapeake Energy Arena. The Grizzlies defeated the Thunder 88-84. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
Memphis Grizzlies 99, Oklahoma City Thunder 93
Highlights: transition lay-up, blow-by ankle-breaking lay-up attempt (goaltended), assisted Quincy Pondexter transition corner 3, stripped Kendrick Perkins and assisted Zach Randolph seal lay-up, hesitation lay-up in traffic, hop-step righty floater, crossover lay-up, jump pass to cutting Tony Allen for lay-up, transition lay-up, righty floater, bounce pass to Marc Gasol for lay-up, go-ahead 3, icing pull-up jumper
Game Score: 23.3
Box Score: 26 points (11-22 field goals, 2-7 three-pointers, 2-3 free throws), 10 rebounds, 9 assists (2 turnovers), 1 steal (1 foul) in 42 minutes (+10)
Story: Conley wasn’t particularly efficient, but he overwhelmed the Thunder anyway. Conley was everywhere, in part because he finally unbound his elite speed. The Grizzlies were 30th in pace during the regular season, and while this game registered at just about their average, Conley pushed the ball when he had the chance. Normally a mediocre finisher, Conley kept the Thunder defense wrong-footed all night and converted at the rim repeatedly. Conley, fifth among the Grizzlies starters in rebounding during the regular season, lead the team, another reminder that just because NBA players can do something doesn’t mean they do them all the time.