Warriors Without Curry, Butler, and Green Against Kings
Golden State faced the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday missing their three biggest stars: Stephen Curry, Draymond Green, and Jimmy Butler. Curry did not join the team on their 90-minute bus ride Tuesday night, and by game time, Green and Butler were also ruled out.
Unusual Starting Lineup
Coach Steve Kerr started a notably 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 these starters has more than four years of NBA experience, making this the least experienced Golden State lineup since April 26, 2012.
That 2012 lineup included Klay Thompson, Chris Wright, Jeremy Tyler, Mickell Gladness, and Charles Jenkins, predating Kerr's tenure as head coach by two years.
Kerr's Perspective
“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.
“I’m looking to see energy, pace from this makeshift group. 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.”
Game Context
The challenge was somewhat eased by Sacramento's own crowded injury list, providing some balance in the matchup.
Author's summary: The Warriors faced the Kings with their least experienced lineup in over a decade, turning a star absence into an opportunity to showcase young talent.