Zach Randolph (photo. Nike)

Chris Paul and the Clippers might still be up in the series, but don’t tell that to the Grizzlies. They feel like they’re in the driver’s seat, especially after giving away a few games at the start of the series. Memphis destroyed L.A. inside during their 12-point Game 5 win last night, and now are sending the series back to Los Angeles at 3-2. CP3 was hobbling by the end of the night; Blake Griffin was limping to the bench twice, including once where he grabbed the knee that cost him his rookie season. Everyone outside of the Grizzlies’ crowd was shocked; They just booed the man. But with both expected to play in Game 6, Memphis needs a better game plan than just staking out a lead and praying they can hold on (It didn’t work in Game 1, and almost didn’t happen last night.). Last night, Zach Randolph and Marc Gasol brought the Grind back to Memphis in the first quarter, and eventually the two of them finished with 42 points and 17 rebounds. Gasol was especially effective. Earlier in the series, he seemed happy with just getting a touch in the second half. Last night, he destroyed L.A.’s frontline. Memphis played like the more desperate team, and if it wasn’t for 20 from Mo Williams, this might’ve been a blowout. Friday night’s Game 6 should be rather interesting. The Clippers say it’s their Game 7. Memphis’ O.J. Mayo adds: “There’s no point leaving home if we don’t know our way back. We can’t look at Sunday because we have to make sure we get back home after Friday night.” … The Clips have been called for 12 technicals in this series alone, and Chris Webber put it best last night: “I’m not sure if it’s a good strategy … But it is a strategy.” Either that or they are purposely trying to fall behind (they were down 24 in this one) before rallying … We’re out like the Knicks.

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