It's a true heavyweight matchup in the second round of the 2022 NBA Playoffs. The Golden State Warriors and Memphis Grizzlies are set to start their seven-game series for a spot in the Western Conference Finals. However, the third-seeded Dubs will be without one of their key players to start their series.

The Warriors announced that Andre Igoudala has been ruled OUT for their first two road games against the Grizzlies. The 2015 Finals MVP missed Games 5 and 6 of their series against the Nuggets earlier. It seems like Iggy isn't quite ready to return to action just yet, via Anthony Slater:

Grizzlies fans and Iguodala have a rather tumultuous history. After being traded from the Warriors to Memphis in 2020, Iggy drew criticism from fans and players for his decision to sit out games. Notably, Ja Morant and Dillon Brooks were vocal about the forward's decision, saying it was disrespectful. Iguodala was eventually traded to the Heat that same season, before returning to Golden State.

As for the impact on this series, Iguodala's injury isn't too worrying for the Warriors in general. The forward's age and lack of shooting has hampered his ability to have an impact in games. The Warriors' new “Death Lineup” also found more success in their series. Still, Kerr is going to miss Iggy's defensive abilities and leadership on the court.

 

The Warriors and Grizzlies have been two of the best teams in the Western Conference this season. Will the Dubs' championship experience trump Ja Morant and the Grizzlies? Or will the youth prevail and exact revenge on Iguodala?