The Golden State Warriors were dealt another blow on Monday as star forward Draymond Green was ruled out of their matchup against the Toronto Raptors. Green, who has battled injuries throughout his career, is dealing with a combination of a left disk issue in his back and an illness.
While any back problem is concerning for the 32-year-old Green given his history, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr expressed optimism that this latest setback is not as severe as the one that cost Green 26 games last season. Still, with the Warriors in the midst of a title defense and jostling for playoff positioning in a competitive Western Conference, they can ill afford to lose their defensive anchor and vocal leader for long.
Silver Lining in Wiggins’ Return
If there was a bright spot for Golden State, it was the return of Andrew Wiggins. The starting wing missed the team’s previous game on Thursday due to a personal matter. His availability helps fill the void left by Green and gives the Warriors another versatile two-way presence to lean on.
Reinforcements on the Horizon
More help could be on the way soon for the Warriors. Key reserve Gary Payton II, who has been out with a calf injury, went through practice on Sunday. Meanwhile, rookie Brandin Podziemski is nearing a return from an abdominal issue. Their impending returns would provide a boost to Golden State’s depth.
“It’s always a concern… We just have to stay on top of it. Training staff is doing a great job with him, and Draymond has done a great job of just doing his rehab.”
– Steve Kerr on Draymond Green’s back injury
As the Warriors navigate this latest injury, they will need their other stars to step up. Stephen Curry has carried a massive offensive load all season. Klay Thompson has worked his way back to form after two devastating injuries. Jordan Poole and Kevon Looney have emerged as reliable contributors. Without Green, Golden State will lean on them even more to keep their repeat hopes alive.
Surviving the West
The Warriors currently sit in 5th place in the West, only 2.5 games ahead of the 7th place Minnesota Timberwolves. In a conference where only four games separate 3rd through 10th, every win is crucial. Losing a player of Green’s caliber, even for a short stretch, could prove very costly in such a tight playoff race.
Green’s value was evident in last year’s postseason as he spearheaded Golden State’s dominant defense while providing his usual point forward playmaking and fiery leadership. If the Warriors are to make another deep playoff run, they will undoubtedly need a healthy Draymond Green leading the charge on both ends. For now, they will hope a few days of rest is all the four-time champion needs to recover from this latest health setback.
