5 keys to the Warriors-Grizzlies Game 4 matchup

MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MAY 03: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors against the Memphis Grizzlies during Game Two of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum on May 03, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
MEMPHIS, TENNESSEE - MAY 03: Klay Thompson #11 of the Golden State Warriors against the Memphis Grizzlies during Game Two of the Western Conference Semifinals of the NBA Playoffs at FedExForum on May 03, 2022 in Memphis, Tennessee. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Justin Ford/Getty Images)
2 of 5

4. Physicality

At times this series has been more akin to a boxing match than a basketball game.

Game 1 saw Draymond Green ejected with a flagrant 2 foul, game 2 featured the infamous Dillon Brooks haymaker on Gary Payton II, and Game 3 saw an ejection from Kyle Anderson as well as the hotly debated “knee pull” from Jordan Poole.

It’s safe to say that we can expect to see more physical play from both sides in game 4.

Memphis saw some regular-season success against the Warriors by playing a very physical style, particularly when guarding Stephen Curry. The defenders that have had success against him tend to be the stalkier, powerful guards that can push him off his spots, such as Dillon Brooks.

That said, Dillon Brooks is returning in game 4 and surely will be looking to do more of the same against Curry and team. Do the Warriors have an answer for the physicality? Does the 3-game player ejection streak continue in game 4? Time will tell.