Warriors vs Grizzlies: High-Stakes NBA Showdown on February 25, 2026
The NBA season heats up as the Golden State Warriors take on the Memphis Grizzlies on February 25, 2026, at FedExForum. This matchup holds significant weight for the play-in race in the Western Conference, with both teams vying for postseason positioning. The Warriors, currently eighth with a 30-28 record, aim to solidify their standing, while the Grizzlies, sitting 11th at 21-35, look to climb the ladder and disrupt the playoff picture.
Injury Report and Expected Lineups
Both squads face substantial absences, which could slow the game's pace and place greater responsibility on role players. For the Golden State Warriors, key players Jimmy Butler III, LJ Cryer, Stephen Curry, De’Anthony Melton, Kristaps Porzingis, and Nate Williams are ruled out. Draymond Green is listed as questionable due to a back issue, and his availability will critically impact the team's defensive schemes and passing dynamics. Available players include Buddy Hield, Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, Trayce Jackson-Davis, Moses Moody, and Gary Payton II.
On the Memphis Grizzlies side, injuries sideline Santi Aldama, Kentavious Caldwell-Pope, Brandon Clarke, Cedric Coward, Zach Edey, and Ja Morant. Kyle Anderson is questionable with knee tendinitis. Expected to play are Jaren Jackson Jr., Scotty Pippen Jr., Ty Jerome, John Konchar, and GG Jackson, who will need to step up in this depleted lineup.
Team Statistics for the 2025-26 Season
Analyzing the season stats reveals distinct team strengths and weaknesses. The Warriors excel in ball movement and shooting efficiency, ranking third in assists per game at 29.1 and first in field goal percentage at 46.1%. However, they struggle with turnovers, averaging 15.7 per game, and have a net rating of +1.7. Defensively, they allow 113.9 points per game, placing 23rd in the league.
The Grizzlies boast a strong rebounding presence, ranking fifth with 44.7 rebounds per game, but face defensive challenges, particularly from three-point range. They allow 117.8 points per game, ranking 24th, and have a net rating of -2.4. Their shooting percentages are moderate, with a 45.9% field goal rate (16th) and 35.1% from beyond the arc (15th).
Head-to-Head Record and Key Matchups
The Warriors have dominated recent encounters, winning the last two meetings, including a narrow 114-113 victory on February 9, 2026. Memphis has shown competitiveness at home, suggesting this game could remain closely contested. With star players Curry and Morant sidelined, the focus shifts to interior play. Key matchups include Jaren Jackson Jr. versus Jonathan Kuminga, where scoring and rebounding will be pivotal. Buddy Hield's shooting prowess could exploit a thin Memphis backcourt, while Draymond Green's potential return would bolster Golden State's defensive organization.
Prediction and Final Thoughts
The Warriors enter as slight favorites by 2.5 points, leveraging their superior passing and shooting efficiency. Prediction: Warriors 112, Grizzlies 108. This game underscores the importance of depth and strategy in the NBA's play-in race, making it a must-watch for basketball enthusiasts.
