Memphis Grizzlies: Steven Adams set to play in Game 3 vs Golden State?

After missing Game 6 vs Minnesota and Games 1 and 2 vs Golden State in round two, Memphis Grizzlies big man Steven Adams has exited Health & Safety Protocols, according to the Associated Press.

The eight-year veteran started 76 games for the Grizzlies before being benched in the first round against the Timberwolves due to being a poor matchup with Karl-Anthony Towns.

Having the NBA’s regular-season leader in offensive rebounds per game (4.6 ORPG) return to the lineup could provide a massive boost to the Grizzlies, who have been out-rebounded in Games 1 and 2 of this best-of-seven series.

Will Memphis Grizzlies big man Steven Adams play in Game 3 vs Golden State?

While Adams will be available to play, it’s still unclear if Grizzlies Head Coach Taylor Jenkins will actually utilize the big man. It will largely depend on how he handles the next day or two of practice and conditioning.

“He looked great in the play group, so there’s obviously confidence there,” Jenkins said in comments captured by the Memphis Commercial Appeal.

“We’ll get him another intense vitamin tomorrow, put him through practice, see where he’s at, and then we’ll kind of make a decision from there,” the coach said.

If Adams can pass the litmus test, Jenkins will likely play him. Will he start, though? That part is also unclear.

Even if Adams can give the Grizzlies 15-20 minutes of great play off the bench, it will help Jaren Jackson Jr. and Brandon Clarke stay fresh and perhaps out of foul trouble. It will also add some much needed muscle for what should be an incredibly fiery and physical game.

If Adams enters the lineup, expect Golden State to counter with more minutes from Kevon Looney, or Nemanja Bjelica. Those two players, 222 lbs and 230 lbs respectively, that can better match up with Adams’ 265 lb frame.

Game 3 of the Grizzlies vs Warriors is set for May 7 at 7:30 PM CT on ABC.