Everybody is enjoying life in the Bay. Since the trade deadline, the Golden State Warriors have been flying through the standings. Jimmy Butler‘s addition to the roster has been transformational. The Warriors have seriously turned the corner, now having won four straight games in a row. In a packed Western Conference, they are eyeing the sixth seed to have a guaranteed spot in the postseason. But as impressive as they have been, James Harden has quite possibly derailed their plans.

The Los Angeles Clippers snapped their three-game losing streak tonight. The Beard’s vintage 30-point performance helped the team sink the Chicago Bulls. The narrow game, although a small step for the Clippers’ turnaround, for the standings, means a lot. The Clippers breaking through their slump helped them improve to 32-26.

It also helped them preserve their sixth spot. With the victory over the Bulls, they stay one game ahead of the Warriors. Sure, a one-game gap doesn’t seem like much, but in the wild Western Conference, one slip-up can cost you big time.

Now, with the Dubs’ matchup against the Orlando Magic tomorrow, they have a golden opportunity. A win would put them on equal footing with the Timberwolves in terms of record—making the playoff race even tighter.

If they lose, their 8th seed standing remains intact—thanks to a better point differential than the Dallas Mavericks. But let’s be real—the message is clear: The Warriors can’t afford to slip up.

Since the trade deadline, Stephen Curry & Co. have been on a tear, dropping just one game. They’ve been locked in, and tomorrow’s showdown against the Orlando Magic could bring them one step closer to the Clippers in the race for the 6th seed.

But just when they need everything to go right, they’ve been hit with some bad news ahead of the game.

Jonathan Kuminga will have to wait more

The Warriors have been patient with bringing Jonathan Kuminga back. As The Athletics Anthony Slater revealed, “They want him to hit the ground running, they don’t want to ease him,”. Hence, although the explosive forward has begun scrimmaging in practices, they aren’t pushing for an early return. As the Bay embarks on a five-game road trip, Kuminga remains on the sidelines in their first game against Orlando.

Slater received the latest update on his conditioning. He wrote, “Jonathan Kuminga will remain out in Orlando tomorrow night to open the Warriors’ road trip. Still waiting on final Rick Celebrini green light. He’s been scrimmaging. At final stage of return from ankle injury. Middle of road trip a possibility,”.

The Magic haven’t been as threatening as they once were early in the season. They have won five of their last 10 games. One of the five losses in that span includes a narrow loss to the Golden State Warriors earlier this month. However, things were far different back then.

Orlando Magic’s identity emerges from their hardcore defense. They exemplify toughness and physicality. Last time around, Andrew Wiggins’ burst was integral in the Warriors win. Now, although they have Jimmy Butler, he isn’t as explosive as Wiggins. The only one comparable happens to be Jonathan Kuminga.

Losing a player who can attack the lane like he does is a definite setback. But here’s the thing—the Magic are struggling right now, while the Warriors are clicking at the perfect time.

Momentum? All on Golden State’s side. Orlando is coming off a brutal 40-point loss to the East-leading Cavaliers, their confidence clearly shaken. Add in their injury troubles, and they’re far from full strength.

Meanwhile, the Warriors have found their groove—stacking up wins and building an electric atmosphere with Butler in the mix. On paper, they should take care of business.

But let’s not forget—Orlando is a different beast at home. Their strong home record proves they’re still a dangerous team. Will the Warriors keep rolling, or will the Magic defend their turf?

Anything could happen, but the stakes are much higher for the Warriors. Can they get closer to clinching the sixth seed?