Two Days from NBA Tip-Off: What to Expect from the Warriors on Tuesday?
The Warriors concluded their preseason duties on Friday, dropping their game against the Clippers 106-103. Following that loss, the team finished their preparation for the regular season 3-2, with no margin larger than 10 points in any final result. Stephen Curry recorded 28 and 20 points in Golden State’s last two games, respectively, so their star player looks ready to go. Jimmy Butler did not play in the previous three preseason games, most likely for resting purposes, but there should be no restrictions for him once the regular season starts.
The team will, in fact, not have one of their key rotation players on Tuesday when they face the Lakers. Moses Moody, who sustained a calf strain during a practice, is doubtful to appear on the opening day roster. The injury doesn’t appear to concern the team, so this just looks like a precautionary measure. Moody appears poised for more responsibilities in scoring this season, but Warriors fans will have to wait just a little longer to see that hope come to life. In truth, the organization needs him to have such a role and become a consistent knockdown shooter who can also contribute to perimeter defense.
In other news, Jonathan Kuminga’s ankle injury shouldn’t keep him out for the season opener. Kuminga tweaked his ankle in Tuesday’s preseason game against the Trail Blazers, consequently sitting out against the Clippers. According to reports, the former seventh overall pick’s status for this Tuesday’s game shouldn't be in jeopardy. Golden State also waived Seth Curry due to salary cap limitations, just 15 days after signing a one-year contract. However, Curry is expected to return to the “Dubs” early during the season, since the move has nothing to do with the skillset of the former Hornet.
As far as the matchup against the Lakers goes, the Warriors should have a slight theoretical edge. It’s tough to see an answer on paper for Los Angeles to stop Steph Curry, unless Lakers head coach JJ Reddick decides to deploy Marcus Smart for an extended period of time. On the flip side, the Warriors may struggle to contain Luka Doncic, one of the most potent offensive players we’ve ever seen. Down low, it should be a relatively even duel between Al Horford, Draymond Green, and Deandre Ayton. The critical news, which I believe ultimately will decide the outcome, is the absence of LeBron James. Sidelined with a sciatica injury, which he suffered during an offseason workout in August, the “King” will not return to the court until mid-November, according to NBA Insider Shams Charania. Given their newfound edge in starpower, I expect the Warriors to come out on top in this contest, though any team with Doncic at the helm will always have a chance to defeat the odds.
