The Golden State Warriors are facing a slew of challenges heading into their Friday matchup against the Denver Nuggets, with Jimmy Butler III upgraded to questionable following a back injury and Stephen Curry ruled out due to worsening flu-like symptoms.
Butler missed the Warriors’ 121-116 loss to the Sacramento Kings on Wednesday but is expected to be evaluated closer to Friday’s game. Head coach Steve Kerr described Butler’s injury as “nothing major” and emphasized caution.
“We’ll play it safe,” Kerr told reporters before Wednesday’s loss. “We just want to make sure that he’s okay.”
Butler’s Importance Highlighted in Loss
Butler’s role extends far beyond scoring. It was evident in their loss in Sacramento. While Curry stretches defenses with his movement and shooting, Butler brings stability to the team.
“When I talk about Jimmy slowing down the pace, it’s really more about him taking care of the ball and not turning it over and getting to the foul line,” Kerr explained. “The pace does slow down. He represents someone so solid, gets fouled, gets open looks. He just controls the game. Without him, the big focus is on taking care of the ball.”
The Warriors struggled to do that against the Kings. Despite standout performances from the team’s young players—Jonathan Kuminga scored 24 points, rookie Will Richard recorded a career-high 30 in his first start, and Moses Moody added 28—the Warriors committed 18 turnovers, seven in a pivotal third quarter. The Kings capitalized, outscoring Golden State and securing the win.
“In the end, the story of the game was the turnovers,” Kerr said. “It’s 30-11 points off turnovers—a great lesson for our young guys.”
Turnover Troubles and Schedule Strain
Golden State’s turnover issues are not new. The team currently averages 17.2 turnovers per game, ranking fifth-worst in the league. After a hot 4-1 start, the Warriors have lost three of their last four games, with injuries and a brutal schedule contributing to the decline.
“12 days, 7 games, five cities,” Kerr lamented before losing in Sacramento. “I hate to use it as an excuse, but with older players, you have to factor that.”
Curry, 37, Butler, 36, Draymond Green, 35, and Al Horford, 39, have all missed games due to injuries or rest. Kerr stressed the cumulative effect on the Warriors’ aging core: “We’re wiped out. That’s a tough way to start the season.”
Curry Sidelined, Recovery Updates
Curry, four-time NBA champion and Warriors leader, will miss his second consecutive game due to flu-like symptoms, including Friday’s Denver matchup. Kerr confirmed Curry will not travel with the team, emphasizing a cautious approach.
“Barring some unforeseen last-second change, he’s not going to be on the team flight to Denver,” Kerr said on 95.7 The Game’s Willard and Dibs.
Curry first experienced symptoms following a win over the Phoenix Suns, describing his energy as “on E” during the final moments. Kerr remains in close contact with the star guard:
“He texted back that things got worse overnight, but he’s resting today at home and hopeful that, within the next couple of days, he’ll be alright,” Kerr said.
Road Trip Challenges Ahead
Golden State faces the additional hurdle of playing at Denver’s high elevation of 5,280 feet, which could test the stamina of Butler and the older veterans. With Curry out and Butler questionable, Kerr will rely on the team’s younger players to help mitigate the Warriors’ struggles.
The Warriors hope Butler’s potential return provides stability and helps the team regain momentum before heading into a critical stretch of road games.
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