The Golden State Warriors are preparing for a highly anticipated season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers. But their latest injury report has raised questions about the team's depth and rotation. With several key players unavailable, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green face added responsibility as the new campaign begins.
The Warriors listed Jimmy Butler III, Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, and Kristaps Porzingis as out ahead of Wednesday's matchup at Crypto.com Arena. Charles Bassey was questionable with right patellar tendinopathy. The injury report lists Curry as probable.
There is encouraging news regarding Curry. The two-time MVP sprained his right ankle during Sunday's open practice, briefly raising concerns about his availability. However, he returned to practice Monday, and coach Steve Kerr confirmed he would play against Los Angeles.
"I'm always concerned when Steph limps off," Kerr said. "But I went down and checked on him, and he told me immediately he was fine." Curry averaged 26.6 points per game last season, despite playing only 43 games. His availability is crucial for a Warriors team looking to return to playoff contention after missing the postseason last year.
Butler's absence is a bigger concern for the team's overall balance. He is recovering from a torn ACL and is expected to miss a significant portion of the season. Moody is also sidelined after rupturing his left patellar tendon last March.
Porzingis remains out indefinitely with a health-related issue. The Lakers will present a difficult opening test. Luka Doncic leads their offense, while Austin Reaves is coming off the best scoring season of his career.
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