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The Golden State Warriors are gearing up to take on the Toronto Raptors. They’ve hit a bit of a rough patch because of the injuries they have suffered. Right now, they’ve won as many games as they’ve lost. Some important members of the squad are sitting out. Their inclusion could improve their fortunes. Sure, a few players are coming back. However, a bunch are still not 100%. This throws a wrench in the works when trying to guess how the Warriors will do against the Raptors.
Golden State might see this game as a sort of challenge while dealing with these hurdles. The Warriors could make a comeback since the Raptors aren’t doing great themselves this year. But they’ve got to get past the injury troubles first if they wanna grab that chance.
Injury Report: Draymond Green Questionable, But Stephen Curry makes his return!
Draymond Green might sit out the next game ’cause his back’s messed up. He’s marked as questionable to play. That’s got folks worried about how the Warriors will defend without him. Green’s been super important in helping the team on offense and defense. If he doesn’t play, his team’s gonna feel it big time. They’re up against the Raptors, with RJ Barrett calling the shots.
Draymond Green is questionable tomorrow in Toronto with that back issue. Steph Curry is cleared to play vs Raptors. Andrew Wiggins is back with the team and will return. Gary Payton II and Brandin Podziemski remain out.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) January 13, 2025
On the bright side, Stephen Curry has been cleared to return. He missed some games because of the concerns surrounding injury. Curry becomes a welcome injection for Golden State. He is the team’s high scorer with an average of 22.6 points per game. His unparalleled range of outside shooting adds to his impact. His appearance on the floor may also help offset Green’s absence. However, the team will still require the efforts of others to make up for the missing links.
Also, Andrew Wiggins will be seen back in the draft. That is another light for this team. Wiggins has been a consistent scorer and shot blocker for the Warriors. His coming back could be beneficial to more units. But Gary Payton II and Brandin Podziemski still won’t be able to join. This diminishes the team’s depth even more.
Let us take a look at the Warriors’ depth chart
PG | Stephen Curry | Brandin Podziemski O | Dennis Schroder |
SG | Dennis Schroder | Buddy Hield | Moses Moody |
SF | Andrew Wiggins | Moses Moody | Gary Payton II O |
PF | Draymond Green DD | Jonathan Kuminga O | Kyle Anderson |
C | Trayce Jackson-Davis | Draymond Green DD | Kevon Looney |
What’s next for the Warriors?
With Curry back in the lineup, the Warriors will be hoping for an immediate turnaround. However, Green’s absence could leave them vulnerable defensively. Iteration will be required by the team. Players such as Jonathan Kuminga and Trayce Jackson-Davis will need to fill roles instead of the traditional defensive anchor. Defensive play and crashing the boards will be of paramount importance. This will prevent the Raptors from exploiting the Warriors’ vulnerabilities.
Looking ahead, the Warriors will need to find consistency. They’ve had a mix of highs and lows this season. A convincing performance against Toronto could provide the momentum they need. With Wiggins and Curry healthy, they’ve got the firepower to make a push. However, the team’s depth will continue to be tested without Green and the other sidelined players.
Injuries are a persistent issue for the Warriors. But now that Curry is on the court, the Warriors remain a potent organization. Green’s potential absence is immense. The Warriors are going to have to address that by finding alternative ways to function in the absence of their defensive anchor. If they can survive the hurricane and get on top with Curry coming back, they just might save the season. The coming few games will showcase whether Golden State can stay in the playoff chase.
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Can Curry's return offset Green's absence, or will the Warriors' defense crumble without their anchor?
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Can Curry's return offset Green's absence, or will the Warriors' defense crumble without their anchor?
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