The Golden State Warriors enter Tuesday’s Play-In Tournament matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies with a deep well of experience, a championship-tested core, and the urgency of a team that understands every possession could determine their path in the postseason. Finishing the regular season at 48–34, Golden State finds itself in the unfamiliar territory of the Play-In, yet they remain one of the most dangerous teams in the Western Conference due to the presence of Stephen Curry, who continues to perform at an elite level. Curry’s offensive gravity and shooting brilliance are unmatched, and his ability to ignite scoring runs on his own gives the Warriors a perpetual edge, especially in high-stakes moments. Alongside him, Klay Thompson provides perimeter spacing and clutch shot-making, while Draymond Green orchestrates the defense and offensive flow with his high IQ, versatility, and vocal leadership. Despite their pedigree, the Warriors have been inconsistent at home this season, failing to cover the spread in six of their last 10 games at Chase Center, which is uncharacteristic for a team that has historically dominated in their own building. That said, the energy and familiarity of playing in front of the home crowd still hold weight, and Golden State knows how to tap into the emotional momentum of postseason play. Their game plan will revolve around high ball movement, spacing the floor, and attacking Memphis’s interior with smart cuts and motion actions, areas where they’ve traditionally excelled.

Defensively, Golden State must be disciplined against Ja Morant’s driving ability, deploying Andrew Wiggins and Gary Payton II to contain penetration and force contested mid-range shots instead of easy finishes at the rim. The Warriors’ bench will also be pivotal—players like Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Dario Šarić must provide energy, shot-making, and defensive hustle in the minutes that follow the starters, particularly in the second and early fourth quarters when games often pivot. Turnovers remain a lingering concern for Golden State, and their ability to limit unforced errors will play a huge role in determining whether they control the pace or allow the Grizzlies to generate transition opportunities off mistakes. Steve Kerr will be looking to lean heavily on his core and trust the chemistry that’s carried them through countless playoff runs, with rotations likely shortened and pressure mounted on every trip down the floor. This game is not just about skill—it’s about execution, discipline, and championship poise, all of which the Warriors have in abundance. For Golden State, a win would mean rest, momentum, and a secure spot in the playoff bracket, while a loss would drag them into a dangerous single-elimination situation. That urgency, combined with the leadership of Curry and the collective experience of the roster, sets the stage for a performance steeped in pride and precision. Expect a laser-focused effort from a team that understands the weight of the moment and knows how to deliver when the lights shine the brightest.