Warriors vs Grizzlies 2026 Showdown: Key Play-in Battle with Major Injuries
Warriors vs Grizzlies 2026: Play-in Race Heats Up

Warriors vs Grizzlies 2026: A Pivotal Western Conference Clash

The FedExForum in Memphis, Tennessee, is set to host a high-stakes NBA matchup on Wednesday, February 25, 2026, at 7:30 p.m. ET, as the Golden State Warriors take on the Memphis Grizzlies. This game holds immense importance for the Western Conference play-in race, with both teams vying to secure a better position in the standings. The Warriors currently rank ninth with a record of 30-28, while the Grizzlies sit in eleventh place with a 21-35 record. The outcome could significantly impact their playoff aspirations, making this a must-watch event for basketball fans.

Recent Form and Team Standings

Golden State enters this contest after a narrow 113-109 loss to the New Orleans Pelicans in their previous outing, highlighting their competitive spirit despite setbacks. Meanwhile, Memphis suffered a 123-114 defeat against the Sacramento Kings on Monday, underscoring their struggles this season. Both teams have faced challenges with consistency, but this game offers a chance to turn the tide. The Warriors' 30-28 record reflects a team fighting for a play-in spot, while the Grizzlies' 21-35 mark indicates a rebuilding phase with potential for upsets.

Injury Woes and Lineup Adjustments

Injuries are a major storyline heading into this matchup, affecting both squads and potentially slowing down the game's pace. For the Memphis Grizzlies, key players like Ja Morant (out with a UCL sprain) and Zach Edey (out with a stress reaction) are sidelined, placing greater responsibility on role players such as Ty Jerome and GG Jackson. Kyle Anderson is listed as day-to-day with a knee issue, adding uncertainty to their lineup. On the Golden State side, star Stephen Curry is out with a right knee injury, along with other absences like Kristaps Porzingis (illness) and Seth Curry (sciatica). Draymond Green is day-to-day with a back injury, which could impact their defensive schemes.

Expected Starting Lineups:

  • Memphis Grizzlies: PG Ty Jerome, SG Cam Spencer, SF Jaylen Wells, PF GG Jackson, C Kyle Anderson
  • Golden State Warriors: PG Pat Spencer, SG Brandin Podziemski, SF Moses Moody, PF Gui Santos, C Draymond Green

Broadcast and Streaming Details

Fans can catch all the action live on NBCS-BA and FDSSE for television coverage. For those preferring online streaming, Fubo and Peacock will provide digital access to the game. This ensures widespread availability for viewers across different platforms, making it easy to follow the intense play-in battle from anywhere.

Game Prediction and Statistical Insights

Statistical analysis suggests an exciting offensive showdown. Warriors games have exceeded the current over/under total of 226.5 points in 36 out of 58 contests this season, while the Grizzlies have done so in 35 of 56 games. The combined average score for both teams is 231 points, which is 4.5 points above the over/under. Additionally, their opponents average 231.7 points per game, further indicating a high-scoring affair. In terms of betting odds, Golden State has been favored in 40 games, winning 23 (57.5%), whereas Memphis has won only 9 out of 37 games as favorites (24.3%). These stats point towards a competitive game with potential for a shootout, despite the injury concerns.

Overall, this Warriors vs Grizzlies clash promises to be a thrilling encounter with significant implications for the Western Conference play-in race. With both teams missing key players, role players will need to step up, and fans can expect a hard-fought battle at FedExForum.