Despite some poor free-throw shooting down the stretch, the Los Angeles Clippers escaped game three with an 87-86 win. The victory gives the Clippers a 2-1 lead in the best of seven series.

The Clippers led by six points with 23 seconds to play, but missed five of their final six free throws and Memphis used two Rudy Gay three-pointers to cut the lead to one. The Grizzlies had a shot to win the game, but Gay's three-pointer as time expired was off and the Clippers escaped.

Chris Paul finished with 24 points and 11 assists leading the way for Los Angeles. Blake Griffin and Randy Foye also finished in double figures with 17 and 16 points respectively.

Gay led the Grizzlies in scoring with 24 while Marc Gasol posted a double-double with 11 points and 10 rebounds. Zach Randolph also finished with 17 points for Memphis.

Game 4 of the series is scheduled for Monday May 7, at 10:30 p.m. ET

For all news and information regarding the Memphis Grizzlies, please visit Straight Outta Vancouver. For updates and perspective on the Los Angeles Clippers, head on over toClips Nation or check out SB Nation Los Angeles. For complete coverage of the 2012 NBA playoffs, stay tuned to SB Nation's dedicated NBA hub.