Warriors Injury Crisis Worsens: Draymond Green and Brandin Podziemski Join Steph Curry on Sidelines

The Golden State Warriors’ injury crisis has deepened ahead of their matchup with the Sacramento Kings. Draymond Green and Brandin Podziemski have joined Stephen Curry on the injury report, intensifying the challenges for head coach Steve Kerr as his roster thins rapidly.

The team is already dealing with multiple setbacks, including Curry’s illness, Jimmy Butler’s back issue, and knee problems for both Alex Toohey and De’Anthony Melton. Now, new reports confirm that Green and Podziemski are also questionable, leaving the Warriors in a precarious position just weeks into the season.

Draymond Green and Brandin Podziemski Added to Growing Injury List

NBA insider Anthony Slater reported that Curry has officially been ruled out for the game against the Kings due to illness, while Draymond Green and Brandin Podziemski were both listed as questionable. Green is managing a right rib contusion, and Podziemski is dealing with wrist soreness that could sideline him for the first time this season.

CBS Sports and RotoWire confirmed the same report, adding that Al Horford, who has been nursing a toe issue, is one of the few veterans still available for action. For Green, this marks his first injury of the season. The veteran forward has averaged eight points, 6.1 rebounds, and 6.1 assists so far — maintaining his trademark all-around contribution on both ends of the court.

If Green cannot play, Kerr may be forced to rely heavily on Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Buddy Hield. Kuminga, who has emerged as one of the bright spots of the season, is averaging a career-high 16.4 points per game on 53.4% shooting. His leadership role could expand even further if the Warriors’ top stars remain unavailable.

Podziemski’s potential absence also complicates Kerr’s rotation. The young guard has been a consistent presence for Golden State, and his injury comes just after he was replaced in the starting lineup by Quinten Post. His absence would leave another gap in the Warriors’ backcourt depth.

Steve Kerr Faces Tough Lineup Decisions

Head coach Steve Kerr now faces one of the toughest stretches of his tenure with Golden State. With so many players sidelined or limited, the team’s chemistry and consistency are under threat. Al Horford, despite limited minutes, is expected to take on a larger role, while Kerr looks to maximize contributions from the bench.

Kerr recently praised Kuminga’s development, stating that his improved decision-making and defensive focus have been critical to the team’s early competitiveness. However, without Curry, Green, and potentially Butler, the offensive structure will need major adjustments. Moody, Hield, Post, Gary Payton II, and Will Richard are expected to see increased playing time against Sacramento.

The Warriors’ situation reflects the challenges of managing an aging roster in a competitive Western Conference. Injuries to core players like Curry and Green underscore the team’s reliance on its young stars to carry the load through the early season grind.

The Warriors’ injury crisis has reached a pivotal moment. With Curry out and Green and Podziemski questionable, Kerr’s depth and adaptability will be tested as Golden State looks to stay competitive against the Kings.

FYI (keeping you in the loop)-

Q1: What is the latest update on the Warriors’ injury crisis?

Draymond Green and Brandin Podziemski were added to the injury list, joining Stephen Curry, who is out with an illness. Green is dealing with a rib issue, and Podziemski has wrist soreness.

Q2: Will Steph Curry play against the Kings?

No. Curry has been officially ruled out due to illness, according to reports confirmed by Anthony Slater.

Q3: Who will start for the Warriors if Green and Curry are both out?

Jonathan Kuminga, Moses Moody, and Buddy Hield are expected to lead the rotation, with Al Horford also likely playing increased minutes.

Q4: How serious is Draymond Green’s injury?

Green has a right rib contusion. The team has listed him as questionable, and his availability will depend on pregame evaluations.

Q5: How has Jonathan Kuminga performed this season?

Kuminga is averaging 16.4 points per game on over 53% shooting, showcasing his potential as a key piece for the Warriors’ future.