Lakers Clinch Playoffs Spot With Memphis Win Over Utah
MEMPHIS, Tenn. (AP) -- Zach Randolph had 25 points and 19 rebounds and the Memphis Grizzlies ended Utah's playoff hopes with an 86-70 victory over the Jazz on Wednesday.
The Grizzlies' victory means the Los Angeles Lakers are assured of making the playoffs even before their late game against the Houston Rockets.
Meanwhile, Memphis, the Western Conference's fifth seed, still held out hopes for home-court advantage if the Los Angeles Clippers lost at Sacramento in another late game.
Mike Conley finished with 14 points for Memphis, which won its second straight and fifth in the past six. Darrell Arthur finished with 11 points for Memphis.
Al Jefferson scored 22 points and grabbed 16 rebounds to lead Utah, the only Jazz player in double figures.
The Jazz managed only 32 percent shooting and were outrebounded 57-47.
