Draymond Green has been ruled out for the Friday (Oct. 27) contest against the Sacramento Kings. Steve Kerr confirmed the veteran forward’s absence during a Wednesday appearance on 95.7 The Game’s “Willard & Dibs” show. Green has been nursing an ankle injury that kept him out of the Warriors’ preseason schedule and opening night.
Kerr could stick with the starting lineup we saw against the Los Angeles Lakers: Chris Paul and Steph Curry shared the backcourt in a small-ball lineup. The Kings don’t possess the same amount of size as the Lakers and will likely look to push the pace. As such, going small could work as the ideal counter.
Golden State and the Kings endured a slobber-knocker first-round playoff series last season. The Warriors ground out a Game 7 victory on the back of big-time performances from Curry and Kevon Looney.
Nevertheless, Green’s absence will be sorely felt, especially on the defensive end. After all, the veteran forward is among the most talented defenders in the NBA and consistently organizes Golden State’s roster on that end of the court. Still, Kerr is playing things safe by ensuring Green is completely ready to go before putting him on the court.
Green signed a four-year $100 million deal with the Warriors this summer. Ensuring he’s available later in the season when his presence will be greatly needed is more important than the opening games of an 82-game season.
