With the Golden State Warriors’ guard depth already compromised with the temporary absence of DeAnthony Melton, who is recovering from an ACL tear, they are set to miss another key piece of their rotation.
Per Steve Kerr, Moses Moody — who suffered a calf strain — is doubtful to play in the Warriors’ season-opening tilt against the Los Angeles Lakers on Tuesday, October 21.
“I would say Moses is doubtful for the opener,” Kerr said. “He just hasn’t practiced yet, and we’re hoping that he gets on the floor maybe Sunday or Monday. But without enough ramp-up time, he’s doubtful for the opener.”
For the time being, this minor setback will force Kerr to go with another option to start alongside Steph Curry at the two-guard position. Brandin Podziemski feels like the lead candidate as of the moment, with Buddy Hield being relegated to a bench role. That could change once Moody returns and is fully healthy, given how he’s much more suited to defend opposing perimeter creators such as the Lakers’ Luka Dončić. However, Moody will be absent for that matchup, forcing Kerr to have to be creative with regard to how he’ll limit the Slovenian superstar.
Meanwhile, Jimmy Butler (ankle) is considered doubtful to play in the Warriors’ preseason finale on Friday against the Los Angeles Clippers but will most likely be available to play in the season opener against the Lakers.
See More:
* [Warriors Injury Report](/warriors-injury-report)
* [Warriors News](/warriors-news)