The Oklahoma City Thunder are set to face the Golden State Warriors in a pivotal Western Conference showdown. OKC currently lead the conference rankings with a 37-8 record, while GSW holds a 23-23 record at the 11th spot. With such contrasting records, tonight’s game is crucial for both the sides as Oklahoma City aims to keep its position at the top whereas Golden State needs a win for a play-in spot. With uncertainty regarding Stephen Curry, can they compete against one of the league’s best teams?

Heading into the game, the Warriors’ injury report casts a shadow over their chances. Their star guard Curry has been ruled out of tonight’s game due to knee management. Joining him on the frontcourt sidelines is forward Draymond Green with a strained calf. Meanwhile, the Thunder don’t have any major injury concerns, except for Ajay Mitchell. He has been ruled out since 11 Jan for the next 10-12 weeks after undergoing a procedure for a turf toe sprain.

What does the absence of Stephen Curry mean for the Warriors?

Losing Stephen Curry and Draymond Green is a huge blow for the Warriors. Curry has been the engine driving the team’s offense all season, averaging 22.3 points and 6.4 assists per game. His absence will certainly be felt, especially when it comes to the GSW’s ability to space the floor and hit three-pointers. Adding to their woes is Green’s absence which will hurt the team on both ends of the floor.

The team will need other guys to step up and fill their void, with players like Dennis Schroder and Andrew Wiggins. In their previous win over the Utah Jazz, Dennis scored 23 points. His performances have been quite solid this season, averaging almost 15 points and 5.5 assists. Wiggins has shown he can step up in big moments, averaging 17.2 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

However, the Thunder has been on fire this season. Winning seven of their last ten games, their explosive offense has been putting up over 120 points a game. Shai Gilgeous-Alexander has been absolutely unstoppable, averaging MVP-like numbers with over 32 points, 5 rebounds, and 6 assists. And it’s not just him. Jalen Williams has also been a key contributor putting 21 points and 5.5 rebounds per game.

Depth charts for both the teams

Golden State Warriors Depth Chart:

Oklahoma City Thunder Depth Chart:

With Stephen Curry and Draymond Green both out, the Warriors are definitely facing an uphill battle. Can they overcome these key injuries and find a way to beat the Thunder, or will Oklahoma’s elite playmaking prove too much? Only time will tell.