Los Angeles Clippers head coach Tyronn Lue reflected on a tough 112-107 loss to the Memphis Grizzlies, highlighting the challenge of managing Kawhi Leonard’s minutes.
“It’s tough… but we have to do what we have to do to make sure we’re doing right by Kawhi,” Lue said, emphasizing the importance of trusting the game plan when star players sit.
The Grizzlies overcame a 16-point deficit, with Jaren Jackson Jr. scoring 24 points, including 16 in the second half. Vincent Williams Jr. added 16 points, Santi Aldama contributed 13 off the bench, and Zach Edey grabbed 21 rebounds, helping Memphis maintain a three-game road winning streak.
Lue identified the third quarter as a season-long weakness for the Clippers. “The third quarter… has been our Achilles heel all year,” he said, noting Los Angeles managed only 18 points in the period as Memphis surged back.
Defensive rotations and perimeter coverage also posed problems. Memphis made 17 three-pointers, tying their season high. Lue explained, “We want to be aggressive… but we also got to be smart… we gambled pretty far out of our little radius and they were able to capitalize.”
Kawhi Leonard led the Clippers with 39 points on 15-of-24 shooting, while James Harden added 23. Lue praised their efforts but noted the team needs to find consistent scoring beyond its stars. “We got some good looks… we just have to continue to keep trusting that,” he said.
The Clippers struggled with rebounding when Zach Edey and the Grizzlies’ big men were on the floor. Lue said adjusting personnel, including going small at times, wasn’t enough to counter Memphis’ interior presence. “We got to do a better job of rebounding,” he admitted.
Despite the loss, Lue emphasized the need to move forward quickly with another game on the schedule. “We have no choice… just put this one behind us, learn from our mistakes, and be better,” he said, signaling the team’s focus on recovery and preparation.
Los Angeles shot 38% from beyond the arc and struggled to sustain its early perimeter success, while Memphis converted 43% of three-pointers. Timely scoring and defensive discipline in the fourth quarter proved decisive for the visitors.
Looking ahead, the Clippers host Dallas on Saturday, seeking to end a six-game home losing streak, while Memphis travels to Sacramento on Sunday to continue its strong road performance.
