Warriors Without Curry, Butler, and Green for Matchup Against Kings
Golden State faced the Sacramento Kings without their three biggest stars: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. Curry did not join the team's late Tuesday night, 90-minute bus ride to Sacramento. By game time on Wednesday, Green and Butler were also ruled out, prompting significant lineup changes.
New Starting Lineup
Coach Steve Kerr started rookie guard Will Richard, second-year center Quentin Post, and shooting guard Moses Moody alongside Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga. None of these starters had more than four years of NBA experience, marking the least experienced Golden State starting lineup since April 26, 2012. That previous lineup included Klay Thompson, Chris Wright, Jeremy Tyler, Mickell Gladness, and Charles Jenkins.
Coach's Perspective
“Obviously it’s more difficult when you’re missing your stars, but it’s a great opportunity for a lot of guys,” said Kerr before the game. He added he hoped to see “energy, pace” from the makeshift group. “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 challenge was somewhat eased by the Kings facing their own injury struggles, leaving both teams in a less-than-ideal competitive state.
Author's Summary
Golden State, missing its top three players, relied on a youthful lineup that presented both challenges and opportunities in their matchup against the injury-hampered Kings.