Warriors’ Curry Out; Green, Butler Status Uncertain Against Kings

The upcoming matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings will see significant absences due to injuries and health concerns. Key players Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler III will not participate, along with the Kings’ Domantas Sabonis and Zach LaVine.

Curry and Butler Out for Warriors

Stephen Curry, the Warriors’ star guard, is ruled out due to a worsening cold. He remained in San Francisco for treatment. Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler faced back soreness during the Warriors’ last game against the Suns, prompting his early exit from the first half. Despite efforts for recovery, he too will miss the game.

King’s Injury Concerns

The Kings are also dealing with injuries to pivotal players. Domantas Sabonis is sidelined with a rib injury he sustained against the Denver Nuggets. Additionally, Zach LaVine is nursing a back issue, adding to the team’s challenges.

Draymond Green’s Condition

Warriors’ Draymond Green, suffering from a rib contusion, has also been officially ruled out for this match. Warriors’ coach Steve Kerr described the team’s situation as “wiped out” due to a rigorously packed schedule, which has included multiple back-to-back games in the season’s early weeks.

Upcoming Schedule Challenges

The Warriors face a demanding stretch ahead. Out of their next nine games, eight are on the road. Kerr highlighted the extreme demands placed on the players, comparing today’s tempo and pressure to that of twenty years ago. He noted, “To ask our players to sprint… is dramatically different.” This rigorous pace is particularly challenging for the Warriors’ older players, including Curry (37), Butler (35), and Green (35).

Addressing Load Management

The Warriors have acknowledged their strategy to manage their veteran players’ workload throughout the season. Rick Celebrini, who leads the performance staff, is focusing on a rotational rest approach. Kerr, however, expressed skepticism regarding long-term solutions for load management, suggesting that shortening the season may be the optimal answer.

• Warriors Key Absences:
  • Stephen Curry – Cold
  • Jimmy Butler III – Back soreness
  • Draymond Green – Rib contusion
• Kings Key Absences:
  • Domantas Sabonis – Rib injury
  • Zach LaVine – Back issue