A healthy Dubs team.
The Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings are meeting for the third time this year, in what figures to be an exciting and intense game with serious in-season tournament implications.
And the best news? Draymond Green is back! After missing five games due to a suspension for putting Minnesota Timberwolves center Rudy Gobert in a rear naked choke, Green returns to the court. Between the suspension and an injury, Green has only played in nine of the team’s 17 games this year … and he’s been ejected early in two of those nine games. When he plays a full contest, the Dubs are 5-2. When he doesn’t, they’re 3-7.
Welcome back, Dray! Here’s the rest of the injury report.
Warriors
Out — Usman Garuba (right finger dislocation)
Garuba, who is on a two-way contract, was highly unlikely to play in this game anyway: he’s yet to appear in a game for the Warriors. He’s the only player on the injury report, and hopefully he’s healthy and back playing in the G League soon.
Kings
Out — Alex Len (right high ankle sprain)
Between injuries and being behind Domantas Sabonis and JaVale McGee on the depth chart, Len has played very sparingly this year. He didn’t appear in the first two games between these teams, and won’t in the third, either.
Doubtful — Keegan Murray (left SI joint irritation)
The likely loss of Murray is a big one. Last year’s No. 4 overall pick had a phenomenal debut season, and while he’s really struggled to shoot the ball in his sophomore campaign, he’s still a rangy and athletic player with excellent defensive and outstanding decision-making. His absence will be felt.
Questionable — Keon Ellis (left ankle sprain)
Ellis is still trying to find his place in the NBA, but he’s already played more minutes this year than he did in his rookie season a year ago. His height (6-foot-6) and shooting ability could make him a key contributor in future seasons.
Enjoy the game, Dub Nation!