Warriors vs. Grizzlies Play-In Game Takeaways: Jimmy Butler Shines, Memphis Stumbles
The Golden State Warriors defeated the Memphis Grizzlies in a high-stakes 2025 NBA play-in tournament game to secure the No. 7 seed in the Western Conference. Here are the key takeaways from the matchup, highlighted by Jimmy Butler’s leadership and Memphis’ missed opportunities:
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1. Jimmy Butler’s Clutch Performance in Curry’s Absence
With Stephen Curry sidelined due to a pelvic contusion , Jimmy Butler stepped into a starring role, delivering a triple-double (16 points, 11 rebounds, 12 assists) and anchoring the Warriors’ offense. His ability to orchestrate plays and maintain composure under pressure underscored his value as a midseason acquisition. Butler emphasized the need for “perfect basketball” in Curry’s absence, focusing on minimizing turnovers and fouls to compensate for the loss of Curry’s scoring explosiveness . His leadership galvanized the team, proving Golden State’s depth in critical moments.
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2. Memphis’ Late-Game Execution Falters
The Grizzlies struggled to capitalize on key opportunities, a recurring theme from their 2022 playoff battles with the Warriors . Despite a gritty effort, Memphis faltered in clutch situations, with defensive lapses and poor shot selection down the stretch. The absence of Ja Morant (who missed the 2022 playoffs due to injury and whose status here is unclear) likely compounded their struggles, as the team lacked a closer to counter Golden State’s veteran poise . Turnovers and an inability to contain Butler in the final minutes sealed their fate.
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3. Warriors’ Playoff Experience Prevails
Golden State leveraged its championship pedigree, echoing their 2022 playoff resilience . Role players like Andrew Wiggins and Kevon Looney replicated their past contributions, with Wiggins providing two-way intensity and Looney dominating the boards. Coach Steve Kerr’s system, even in his COVID-related absence in 2022, has long emphasized adaptability—a trait that shone through as the Warriors adjusted to Curry’s injury and Memphis’ physicality .
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4. Implications for the Playoffs
By winning, the Warriors secured a first-round matchup against the Houston Rockets, avoiding the risk of elimination in a second play-in game . For Memphis, the loss forces them into a do-or-die game against the Kings-Mavericks winner for the No. 8 seed. The Grizzlies’ inability to close out games—a flaw exposed in their 2022 series—remains a critical hurdle .
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5. Looking Ahead
Warriors’ Health: Curry’s return timeline remains uncertain, but Butler’s form offers hope for sustained competitiveness.
Grizzlies’ Redemption: Memphis must address late-game execution and reliance on Morant (if available) to salvage their season.
Strategic Adjustments: Golden State’s defensive schemes, honed in past matchups with Memphis, will be tested against Houston’s dynamic offense .
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Conclusion
The Warriors’ victory highlighted their veteran savvy and Butler’s emergence as a playoff-caliber leader, while Memphis’ recurring flaws in crunch time raised questions about their maturity. As Golden State eyes another title run, the Grizzlies face an uphill battle to keep their season alive.

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