The Memphis Grizzlies are changing their starting lineup ahead of the play-in game against the Golden State Warriors, with Scotty Pippen Jr. replacing Vince Williams Jr. Pippen, who has excelled as a defender and led the team in steals, will focus on guarding Steph Curry. His playing time has increased since Jaylen Wells’ wrist injury, and he’s scored in double figures over his last six games. Pippen will join Desmond Bane, Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Zach Edey in a lineup aimed at maximizing size and defensive capability. Grizzlies coach Tuomas Iisalo emphasized Pippen’s importance and consistency.
SAN FRANCISCO — The Memphis Grizzlies are set to implement a significant change to their starting lineup on Tuesday night for their NBA play-in game against the Golden State Warriors (9 p.m. CT, TNT).
Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. will start instead of Vince Williams Jr., who has taken on a starting role since Jaylen Wells was sidelined due to a wrist injury.
“He’s been a key player for us all season,” Desmond Bane stated during Tuesday morning’s shootaround. “He will play a significant role tonight. I’m counting on a strong performance from him.”
Pippen will take the floor alongside Bane, Ja Morant, Jaren Jackson Jr., and Zach Edey in the starting five. His main responsibility will involve defending Warriors superstar Steph Curry, having led the Grizzlies in steals this season while averaging 21.3 minutes of action per game.
Pippen’s playing time has increased following Wells’ injury, logging at least 22 minutes in each of his last six games. During this stretch, he has also recorded double-digit points in every outing.
Both Edey and Pippen are expected to have substantial contributions. The Grizzlies aim to maintain a large lineup, which may lead to increased minutes for Edey if he avoids foul trouble. Pippen has emerged as one of the Grizzlies’ top defenders against initial offensive attacks.
“Throughout the last quarter of the season, they’ve both had outstanding performances,” Grizzlies interim coach Tuomas Iisalo commented on Monday. “Scottie’s contributions have been significant for an extended period. I wouldn’t even label them as X-factors anymore. They’ve been remarkably reliable in what they bring to the team.”
Damichael Cole is the Memphis Grizzlies beat writer for The Commercial Appeal. Reach Damichael at [email protected]. Follow Damichael on X, formerly known as Twitter, @DamichaelC.