Grizzlies grab West 4th seed
MEMPHIS, Tennessee—The Memphis Grizzlies claimed the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference and homecourt advantage in the first round of NBA playoffs by ripping the Orlando Magic, 88-76, on Thursday.
Marc Gasol scored 22 points and Rudy Gay added 20 for the Grizzlies, who won their 11th straight home game and will open the playoffs at home Sunday against the Los Angeles Clippers, who dropped to the fifth seed.
Hedo Turkoglu, playing for the first time in 10 games because of a facial fracture, led the Magic with 18 points, hitting 7 of 13 shots from the field.
Article continues after this advertisementThe Magic rested all their starters, already guaranteed of being the No. 6 seed in the East.
In Atlanta, the hosts clinched home-court advantage in the first round of the playoffs by trashing defending champ Dallas, 106-89.
Josh Smith scored 23 points for the Hawks, who raced to a 23-point lead in the first quarter and wrapped up the fourth-best record in the East and host fourth-seeded Boston on Sunday.
Article continues after this advertisementDirk Nowitzki’s 22 points led the Mavericks, who will open the playoffs on Saturday at Oklahoma City.
In Oakland, Patty Mills had career highs of 34 points and 12 assists as undermanned San Antonio tripped Golden State, 107-101.
DeJuan Blair added 22 points and 13 rebounds for the Spurs.
OTHER RESULTS: Bulls 107, Cavaliers 75; Celtics 87, Bucks 74; Wizards 104, Heat 70; Nuggets 131, Timberwolves 102; Jazz 96, Trail Blazers 94; Kings 113, Lakers 96; Pistons 108, 76ers 86; Rockets 84, Hornets 77; Raptors 98, Nets 67; Knicks 104, Bobcats 84
