As the Western Conference Semi-Finals move back to San Francisco, tensions are rising up. Memphis Grizzlies and the Golden State Warriors are tied 1-1 going into the all-important game three. After the Warriors took the opening game of the series and stole home court, Memphis won the next game convincingly, riding on Ja Morant’s playoff high.

Memphis is an up-and-coming team being led by their superstar in waiting for Ja Morant, who recently won the league’s Most Improved Player Award for the 2021-22 season. Golden State is trying to continue to win with the same core which won them the three championships.

Injury Report

Gary Payton II will not be playing for the Warriors. After suffering an elbow injury during the opening minutes of the second game of the series. Andre Iguodala and James Wiseman have been ruled out too because of Disc and Knee problem, respectively. Draymond Green, who went out of the second game after taking an elbow in the eye, is also expected to start again.

As for the Grizzlies, they will be without Santi Aldama, Killian Tillie, and Dillon Brooks. Santi and Killian are dealing with injuries. Dillon Brooks is suspended for the game after his hard foul on Payton during game two. They assessed him with a flagrant foul two for that. Steven Adams, who was on the injury report for the last two games, is not listed for the third game.

Watch this story –  “Whole Organization Delusional”: NBA Twitter in a Frenzy Following Rumors About Lakers Potentially Reuniting LeBron James With His Former Teammate

Possible Lineups

We could see the return of Steven Adams into the starting lineup for Memphis. But it remains to be seen in what capacity will he play and for how long? De’Anthony Melton could start in place of the suspended Dillon Brooks at the small forward spot. Possible Memphis starting five – Ja Morant, Desmond Bane, Jaren Jackson Jr., Steven Adams and De’Anthony Melton.

With Payton out, we will see some changes for the Warriors. Since he is out for the series, Kevon Looney could make a comeback to start as the center. This would push Draymond Green and Andrew Wiggins to the forwards spots. Possible Warriors starting five – Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, Andrew Wiggins and Kevon Looney.

Read more –  “Undertaker Meme Pass”: NBA Twitter Stunned After Luka Doncic Pulls Off Unbelievable Pass While Sitting on the Floor vs Suns in Game 3