Warriors Without Curry, Butler, and Green Face Kings
Golden State arrived in Sacramento without their three top players for the matchup against the Kings. Stephen Curry did not travel with the team on their 90-minute bus ride late Tuesday night. By the time the game started, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler were also ruled out.
Unexperienced Starting Lineup
Coach Steve Kerr chose a starting lineup featuring rookie guard Will Richard, second-year center Quentin Post, shooting guard Moses Moody, Brandin Podziemski, and Jonathan Kuminga. None of these starters have more than four years of NBA experience. This is the least experienced lineup the Warriors have had since April 26, 2012, two years before Kerr became head coach.
“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. He also emphasized a focus on “energy, pace” and aggressive play on offense.
Kerr added, “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.”
The challenge was somewhat eased as the Kings also faced a lengthy injury list.
Previous Least Experienced Lineup
The 2012 lineup the Warriors used then consisted of Klay Thompson, Chris Wright, Jeremy Tyler, Mickell Gladness, and Charles Jenkins.
Author's summary: The Warriors faced the Kings with a young, inexperienced lineup missing their three stars, embracing the challenge as a valuable opportunity to showcase energy and aggressive play.