The Golden State Warriors and New Orleans Pelicans are facing injury challenges as they prepare for their upcoming matchup. The Warriors, currently holding a 10-10 record, will need to find ways to adapt without their star player, Stephen Curry, who is sidelined for at least two games due to injury.
Injury Updates for Warriors and Pelicans
The Golden State Warriors will see the return of Jonathan Kuminga after he missed seven games due to knee tendonitis. Additionally, Gary Payton II will join the lineup after recovering from an ankle injury sustained in a recent game. However, Trayce Jackson-Davis remains unavailable due to knee issues.
On the injury front for the Pelicans, Trey Murphy III will not participate in the game due to an elbow injury, despite being previously listed as questionable. Jordan Poole (quad), Herb Jones (calf), Jordan Hawkins (illness), and Karlo Matkovic (calf) are also out for this matchup. Furthermore, Dejounte Murray continues to be sidelined with a torn Achilles, and his return is not expected for at least another month.
Matchup Insights: Draymond Green vs. Zion Williamson
This matchup will mark the seventh encounter between Draymond Green and Zion Williamson. Historically, the Warriors have a favorable record of 4-2 against New Orleans when Green is on the court. In last year’s encounters, Green notably defended Williamson, limiting him to 26 points on a shooting percentage of 41.7%. Despite past performances against Green, Williamson is capable of explosive scoring, averaging 21.9 points per game this season.
Kuminga’s Performance and Recovery Needs
Jonathan Kuminga’s return is crucial for the Warriors’ offensive strategy. Initially, he averaged 17.2 points in his first nine games this season. However, his performance dipped to just 6.0 points in the following four games before his injury. The Warriors hope to see more consistent scoring from Kuminga, especially given Curry’s absence. Historically, Kuminga has stepped up, scoring at least 23 points in seven out of 17 games when Curry is out.
Upcoming Schedule Challenges
Following the game against the Pelicans, the Warriors face a daunting stretch of opponents. Their next nine games feature eight teams with records at or above .500, including:
- 12/2 vs. Oklahoma City Thunder (19-1)
- 12/4 at Philadelphia 76ers (10-8)
- 12/6 at Cleveland Cavaliers (12-8)
- 12/7 at Chicago Bulls (9-9)
- 12/12 vs. Minnesota Timberwolves (10-8)
- 12/14 at Portland Trail Blazers (8-11)
- 12/18 at Phoenix Suns (12-8)
- 12/20 vs. Phoenix Suns (12-8)
- 12/22 vs. Orlando Magic (12-8)
The Warriors are currently favored by nine points against the Pelicans. A victory is essential as they prepare for an intense schedule that lies ahead.
