Stephen Curry Ruled Out for Warriors vs Grizzlies Clash
The Golden State Warriors will be without their superstar guard Stephen Curry for the upcoming NBA game against the Memphis Grizzlies on February 25, 2026. The team has officially listed him as "Out" due to right knee pain, specifically diagnosed as patellofemoral pain syndrome. This marks his second consecutive missed game, following his absence in a recent matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans.
Details on Curry's Knee Injury and Recovery Timeline
An MRI conducted after the All-Star break revealed bone bruising in Curry's right knee, but fortunately, no structural damage was detected. The patellofemoral pain syndrome affects the area around the kneecap, limiting movement and making it challenging to withstand the physical demands of an NBA game. The Warriors plan to re-evaluate Curry's condition in approximately 10 days to assess his progress and determine a potential return date.
The team confirmed his status in the official injury report released at 2:30 PM ET before the game at FedExForum. This injury significantly impacts the Warriors' performance, as they hold a record of 7-12 in games without Curry this season. His absence typically slows down the offense and reduces outside shooting efficiency.
Warriors' Injury Woes Extend Beyond Curry
Golden State is grappling with multiple injuries heading into this contest. Alongside Curry, Jimmy Butler III is out with a right ACL injury requiring surgery, De’Anthony Melton is sidelined for left knee management, and Kristaps Porzingis is out due to illness. Additionally, LJ Cryer and Nate Williams are unavailable as they are on G League assignments.
Draymond Green is listed as questionable with a left low back injury, and if he plays, he will be crucial on both offense and defense. In response to these absences, the Warriors will rely more heavily on players like Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, Jonathan Kuminga, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Buddy Hield to step up and fill the scoring void.
Grizzlies Also Missing Key Players
Memphis faces its own injury challenges, with star guard Ja Morant out due to a left elbow UCL sprain. Other absentees include Santi Aldama (right knee management), Brandon Clarke (right calf strain), Zach Edey (left ankle stress reaction), and Kentavious Caldwell-Pope (right fifth finger surgery recovery). Jaren Jackson Jr. is available and will be a focal point, supported by Jaylen Wells and Scotty Pippen Jr., to compensate for Morant's absence.
Game Outlook and Western Conference Implications
The Warriors are coming off a 113-109 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans, and without Curry, they have fewer scoring options, which could hinder their offensive flow. Both teams are vying for position in the competitive Western Conference standings. Memphis holds a home-court advantage at FedExForum, which, combined with Golden State's injury-depleted roster, gives them an edge in this matchup.
For the Warriors, the outcome of this game will largely depend on how their role players perform in Curry's absence until he returns. This contest highlights the impact of injuries on team dynamics and playoff positioning as the season progresses.
