Warriors Shake Up Starting Lineup Amid Injury Concerns as Depleted Grizzlies Come to Town
In a surprising development that has Golden State Warriors fans buzzing, the team unveiled an unexpected starting lineup change ahead of tonight’s Emirates NBA Cup matchup against the Memphis Grizzlies. The shake-up comes as both teams grapple with injury challenges that could significantly impact the game’s outcome.
Following De’Anthony Melton’s ACL injury, Lindy Waters III has stepped into the spotlight, earning his first start of the season. The new-look Warriors starting five now features Stephen Curry, Waters III, Andrew Wiggins, Draymond Green, and Trayce Jackson-Davis—a decision that has sparked debate among the Warriors faithful.
The move has particularly raised eyebrows regarding Moses Moody’s role on the team. Moody, who has shown impressive growth this season with 9.2 points per game while shooting a remarkable 48% from the field and 44% from three-point range, was passed over for the starting position. Many fans took to social media to express their disappointment, with one supporter noting, “Moody really gets no respect from Kerr.”
The Warriors’ lineup decisions, however, pale in comparison to the challenges facing their opponents. The Grizzlies are entering tonight’s contest severely short-handed, with a staggering eight players potentially sidelined. Most notably, star guard Ja Morant remains out with right hip and pelvic muscle strains, while Desmond Bane is questionable with a right oblique strain.
The Grizzlies’ injury report is a comprehensive list of players on their roster.
- Yuki Kawamura (G League assignment)
- Colin Castleton (G League assignment)
- Brandon Clarke (questionable—left toe soreness)
- GG Jackson (right fifth metatarsal recovery)
- Cam Spencer (right ankle sprain)
- Vince Williams Jr.’s condition is uncertain due to a stress reaction in his left tibia.
In contrast, the Warriors’ medical report appears relatively manageable, with only Melton ruled out and Kyle Anderson listed as probable due to a neck spasm.
Tonight’s game takes on added significance as part of the Emirates NBA Cup, making the timing of these roster challenges particularly crucial for both teams. The Warriors aim to capitalize on their relatively healthier roster, while the Grizzlies will need to dig deep into their bench to remain competitive.
The Warriors’ lineup change has largely unified fan reaction, with many believing Moody deserved the starting nod. As one Warriors fan account stated, “I like Lindy, but I feel like this should be Moses, clear as day.”
The game tips off at 10:00 p.m. EST at SimpliFi Arena, where we’ll see how these roster adjustments play out on the court. With both teams adapting to new circumstances, tonight’s matchup promises to be an intriguing test of depth and adaptability in what has become a compelling rivalry in recent years.