Overview
- Stephen Curry (left ankle sprain), Jimmy Butler (illness) and Draymond Green (rest) were all ruled out for the Warriors’ nationally televised home game against Oklahoma City.
- Oklahoma City cruised 131-94, with Shai Gilgeous-Alexander scoring 30 as Golden State shot 35.6 percent and leaned on an improvised starting five of Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Will Richard, Gui Santos and Quinten Post.
- Steve Kerr said Curry “tweaked” his ankle earlier in the week and expressed hope he could return for Saturday’s game against Utah, noting the decision prioritized injury management.
- With multiple veterans sidelined, younger and reserve players logged extended minutes; Jonathan Kuminga, expected to dress earlier in the day, was ruled out pregame with lower back soreness.
- Because the game was on Prime Video, the NBA’s player participation policy could draw league scrutiny of star absences, which outlets noted can carry fines if deemed illegitimate.