Warriors Face Kings Without Curry, Butler, and Green
SACRAMENTO — The Golden State Warriors entered their game against the Sacramento Kings missing their three biggest stars: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. Curry did not join the team on their 90-minute bus ride Tuesday night, and Green and Butler were ruled out before tip-off Wednesday.
Unfamiliar Starting Lineup
Coach Steve Kerr decided to start rookie guard Will Richard, second-year center Quentin Post, and shooting guard Moses Moody, alongside Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga. This lineup was Golden State’s least experienced since April 26, 2012, when Kerr was not yet head coach. That previous young lineup featured Klay Thompson, Chris Wright, Jeremy Tyler, Mickell Gladness, and Charles Jenkins.
Kerr's Expectations
“Obviously it’s more difficult when you’re missing your stars, but it’s a great opportunity for a lot of guys,” Kerr said before the game. He emphasized looking for “energy, pace” from the new group and urged them to play aggressively on offense and focus on solid defense.
He added, “Throwing the ball ahead, playing aggressively on offense. Defensively, containing penetration and keeping the easy stuff away, just trying to put a good 48 minutes together. I’m excited.”
Game Context
The Warriors’ challenge was somewhat eased because the Kings also faced several injuries on their roster.
Author’s summary: Despite being without their three top players, the Warriors leaned on a young, inexperienced lineup, offering fresh opportunities and testing their resilience against an injury-hit Kings squad.