Warriors vs. Grizzlies Play-In Game Takeaways: Jimmy Butler Shines, Memphis Collapses

In a thrilling battle of the 2025 NBA Play-In Tournament in the Western Conference, the Golden State Warriors took on the Memphis Grizzlies in a do-or-die game. Stephen Curry’s fourth-quarter heroics and Jimmy Butler’s clutch performance clinched Golden State’s No. 7 seed, while Memphis must win to take the No. 8 seed. This game had significant playoff implications with Ja Morant nursing an ankle issue and the Grizzlies’ turnover problems flaring up again. Let’s dive into the biggest takeaways from this epic Warriors vs. Grizzlies tussle.

‘Playoff Jimmy’ Butler Shows What the Warriors Missed

Golden State received criticism for the midseason acquisition of Jimmy Butler. But after Butler’s 24-8 onslaught and a tide-turning 38-point eruption in the Play-In, doubters were hushed. His ability both to attack the rim (12-of-18 on free throws) and to facilitate offense in Curry’s absence proved crucial. Butler’s playoff résumé — he steered the Heat to the 2023 Finals as an 8-seed — gives the Warriors a real opportunity to upset the Rockets.

Stephen Curry’s fourth-quater masterclass

Butler may have set the tone, but Curry delivered the knockout blows. With three dagger threes among his 15 points in the final period, Curry showed why he’s the NBA’s most feared closer. And his chemistry with Butler during crunch time makes for a lethal one-two combination for Golden State as it heads into the playoffs.

Memphis turns over the ball at the worst possible time

The Grizzlies opened with a rush, jumping ahead by nine points, but self-destructed with 19 turnovers that gifted the Warriors with 27 points. The backbreaker was Ja Morant’s late-game ill-advised pass, a pass that led to a Curry three. If Memphis wants to advance to face the winner of the Kings-Mavericks matchup, Memphis needs to tighten it up.

It prevented rookie Jonathan Kuminga from entering the game.

Outside of Curry and Butler, Golden State received little production. Gary Payton II (12 points) and Quinten Post (11 points) the only other supporting cast members in double figures. Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski и другие стреляли 5 из 21. The Warriors need their bench to produce more for a deep playoff run

Ja Morant’s Ankle Injury Is a Specter

Morant sprained his ankle in the third quarter but was able to return to finish with 22 points. His health will be key if Memphis moves on. Dealing with the Thunder’s top-ranked defense (which forces 17 turnovers a game) with a limping Morant could be a recipe for disaster.

The Warriors’ victory answered the question of star power, while Memphis’ mistakes were the rare costly error. The Warriors will face the Rockets now, and the Grizzlies have a do-or-die game for the No. 8 seed. If Butler and Curry remain hot, the Warriors could pose a threat as playoff dark horse.

Who’s winning the West, in your opinion? Can Memphis rebound, or will the Warriors go deep? Let me know what you think in the comments!