Emotions have been kicked into high gear for tomorrow. The Chase Center will have their Çaptain’s Hats on to honor a franchise legend. Klay Thompson, for the first time as a rival, returns to the floor that formed his legend. His former teammates are facing an array of emotions. “Don’t do this to me. I’m not ready for this, man”, said Stephen Curry about his Splash Brother’s return. Draymond Green, on the other hand, is ready to run through his chest.
During the season, despite Thompson’s exit, the Bay’s ship sailed well. In fact, they have been prolific. The Warriors have won five of their last six games, including a hard-fought victory against the Boston Celtics. Steve Kerr’s concept of a deep rotation has revolutionized the Warriors’ system. Furthermore, Buddy Hield has become a standout, replacing Thompson’s shooting, currently converting a blistering 48.8% of his shots.
On the other hand, the Mavericks are yet to find a consistent rhythm. The Luka Doncic-led side is hoping to heal from a grimacing loss against the Denver Nuggets. Kyrie Irving, the devious scorer, exploded for 43 points in the two-point loss. And in recent years, the Warriors and Mavericks have stitched together somewhat of a rivalry.
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In their first battle this season, let’s look at their health updates.
Golden State Warriors injury report
On the night their legend returns, the Warriors don’t have a lot to worry about. Only one player appears on their injury list – Andrew Wiggins. The explosive forward is suffering from a low back strain. He has dealt with the ailment consistently this season. He remains a game-time decision for Kerr on the Warriors’ In-Season Tournament debut this season.
Apart from Wiggins, the Bay has no other injuries to worry about. DeÁnthony Melton and Stephen Curry, who previously missed games, are back in full health. Hence, the Golden State Warriors will greet Klay Thompson with their entire roster. But does the former Warriors have all his artillery?
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Will Klay Thompson's return to the Chase Center ignite old flames or spark new rivalries?
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Dallas Mavericks injury report
The Mavericks have gone a few games without being in full health. In particular, they haven’t had their one-two punch at the center. Dereck Lively, who has missed the past four games will miss the game against the GSW due to a shoulder injury. His offensive rebounding will be missed against a high-motor Warriors team that thrives in playing quickly.
Additionally, the Mavericks will also be without forward PJ Washington for the fourth straight game. Averaging 9.4 points, the 26-year-old is among the better defensive players on the roster. His absence could prove to be a breakthrough for the Bay who have a slasher like Jonathan Kuminga pressuring the rim.
Golden State Warriors depth chart
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Starters | Second Unit | Third Unit |
Luka Doncic | Spencer Dinwiddie | Jaden Hardy |
Kyrie Irving | Jaden Hardy | Quentin Grimes |
Klay Thompson | Naji Marshall | Quentin Grimes |
Naji Marshall | Olivier-Maxence Prosper | Naji Marshall |
Daniel Gafford | Dwight Powell | Maxi Kleber |
Dallas Mavericks depth chart
Starters | Second Unit | Third Unit |
Stephen Curry | Brandin Podziemski | DeÁnthony Melton |
DeÁnthony Melton | Buddy Hield | Moses Moody |
Andrew Wiggins (questionable) | Moses Moody | Gary Payton II |
Draymond Green | Jonathan Kuminga | Kyle Anderson |
Trayce Jackson-Davis | Kevon Looney | Draymond Green |
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The Golden State Warriors have won two of their three games at home so far. On the other hand, Dallas has found it difficult on the road, losing two of their three thus far. Given the major injuries they have, the reigning Finalists will have to conjure something remarkable to vanquish a hot Warriors side. Luka Doncic and Kyrie Irving will need big nights while Thompson announces himself emphatically.
But if not, the conditions and a swarm of home supporters give the Warriors an edge in this matchup. Who do you think will win this game? Let us know your views in the comments below.
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Will Klay Thompson's return to the Chase Center ignite old flames or spark new rivalries?