MEMPHIS, Tennessee — The Golden State Warriors get ready to face the Memphis Grizzlies tonight in one major game for the NBA Western Conference playoff seeding. This matchup is set for 8:00 p.m. ET at the FedEx Forum and it could change the playoff landscape for both teams.
With a win, the Warriors (43-31) go ahead of the Grizzlies (44-31) into the fifth seed, putting them in a good spot as the playoffs approach. But if they lose, the Warriors might find themselves squeezed out of the playoff positions altogether, dropping into a tie with the Timberwolves and Clippers. Right now, the Warriors sit just a half-game ahead of these rivals.
However, injury concerns are hanging over this game. Jonathan Kuminga is questionable after he picked up a pelvic contusion during Sunday’s victory against the San Antonio Spurs. He left the game with 6:59 remaining in the second quarter and will undergo further evaluation. His contribution has been key for the Warriors this season, making his potential absence quite impactful.
“We hope he can play, every bit counts in this critical phase of the season,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr said during the pre-game press conference.
In worse news for Golden State, Gary Payton II is out for the game due to a torn ligament in his left thumb. Coach Kerr acknowledged that Payton’s defensive skills are hard to replace, especially in a matchup against Memphis, which boasts talented guards like Ja Morant and Desmond Bane.
On the Grizzlies’ side, they will also miss some players. Brandon Clarke is out for the season because of a PCL sprain in his knee while Zyon Pullin is listed as out as well, still recovering from a previous injury. John Konchar is questionable due to illness; if he doesn’t play, it could weaken Memphis’ bench depth.
The Grizzlies have been struggling recently, with their last win coming against the Warriors in January. They have lost three straight games and seven of their last ten, raising concerns that they might slip into the play-in tournament if they keep losing.
“We need everyone to step up. We’re not in a great spot right now, but that can change quickly with a good performance,” Grizzlies coach Bickerstaff said.
Fans expect an intense game as this is a critical point in the season for both teams. With the playoffs looming, every game counts, and the stakes are high.
