Warriors Face Kings Without Their Top Stars
Golden State played against the Sacramento Kings without their three biggest stars: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. Curry did not join the team on their 90-minute bus ride to Sacramento Tuesday night. By game time Wednesday, Green and Butler were also confirmed out.
Unexperienced Starting Lineup
Coach Steve Kerr started a young and inexperienced lineup featuring rookie guard Will Richard, second-year center Quentin Post, and shooting guard Moses Moody, alongside Brandin Podziemski and Jonathan Kuminga. None of the starters had more than four years of NBA experience, making this the least experienced Golden State opening lineup since April 26, 2012.
Comparing Past Lineups
The last similarly inexperienced lineup was coach Kerr's predecessor’s squad, which consisted of Klay Thompson, Chris Wright, Jeremy Tyler, Mickell Gladness, and Charles Jenkins.
Kerr on Challenges and Opportunities
“Obviously it’s more difficult when you’re missing your stars, but it’s a great opportunity for a lot of guys,” Kerr said before the game.
“Throwing the ball ahead, playing aggressively on offense. Defensively, containing penetration and keeping the easy stuff away, just trying to put a good 48 minutes together. I’m excited.”
Matchup Context
The task was somewhat eased by the Kings also dealing with a crowded injury list for the matchup.
Author’s Summary
Facing injury setbacks, the Warriors fielded their least experienced lineup in over a decade, turning a tough situation into a development opportunity under Steve Kerr’s guidance.