The NBA Play-In Tournament is heating up as the Golden State Warriors prepare to host the Memphis Grizzlies in a critical matchup on April 15, 2025, at Chase Center in San Francisco. This clash marks a pivotal moment for both teams as they vie for a spot in the Western Conference playoffs.
The Warriors, led by the dynamic duo of Stephen Curry and newly acquired Jimmy Butler, have experienced a rollercoaster season. Since trading for Butler in February 2025, the team has surged, boasting a record of 23-8. However, their recent form has raised concerns, as they lost three of their last five games, including a heartbreaking overtime defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers. In that game, Curry scored 36 points, but it wasn't enough to secure the win, with Butler contributing 30 points. The Warriors are now in a must-win situation, needing to secure victory either in this game or in their next opportunity to advance to the playoffs.
On the other hand, the Grizzlies enter this contest with a different trajectory. After a tumultuous season marked by injuries and coaching changes, they find themselves in the Play-In for the first time in franchise history. Ja Morant, who sat out the previous game to rest, is expected to return and is averaging 30 points per game since April began. His presence is crucial for Memphis as they look to capitalize on their recent momentum, which includes a decisive win over a struggling Dallas Mavericks team. In that game, Lamar Stevens stepped up in Morant's absence, scoring 31 points, while several other players contributed 20 or more points.
The stakes are high for both teams. The Warriors, despite their star power, have a history of struggles in the Play-In Tournament, having lost all three of their previous appearances. This season, they finished third in the Pacific Division, a notable improvement from last year, but it still wasn’t enough to secure an automatic playoff berth. Meanwhile, the Grizzlies, who finished 13th in the Western Conference last year, have made significant strides this season. With Morant leading the charge, they have the potential to make a deep playoff run if they can get past the Warriors.
As the teams prepare to tip off at 10 p.m. ET, fans are eagerly anticipating a thrilling showdown. The Warriors have won three of their four meetings against the Grizzlies this season, but with the stakes this high, anything can happen. The game is set to be broadcast on TNT, allowing fans to catch all the action live.
In terms of betting, the Warriors opened as 7-point favorites, reflecting their home court advantage and recent performance. The over/under for the game is set at 228 points, highlighting expectations for a competitive and high-scoring matchup. Experts have mixed opinions on the outcome; some favor the Warriors to cover the spread, while others see value in betting on the Grizzlies to pull off an upset.
As the game approaches, the focus will be on the health and performance of key players. Curry has been dealing with a thumb injury, wearing a splint to protect it during games. Butler, who also faced injury concerns, will need to be at his best if the Warriors hope to advance. On the Grizzlies' side, Morant's return is crucial, and his ability to perform at an elite level could be the difference-maker in this matchup.
In summary, the Warriors and Grizzlies are set for an electrifying contest that promises to deliver high stakes and intense basketball action. With both teams aiming for playoff glory, fans can expect a fierce battle as they fight for the coveted seventh seed in the Western Conference playoffs.
