“I chatted with him briefly in the locker room. He just indicated it was fine. He wasn’t in the most terrific mood, but he wasn’t like noticeably limping or anything like that. So I don’t think it’s anything serious”. Anthony Slater provided some optimism about Brandin Podziemski’s recovery process during a recent appearance on the ‘Warriors Plus Minus’ podcast. Unfortunately, the player’s continued absence contradicts the NBA reporter’s claim. Podziemski has now missed 2 consecutive games since he sustained his back injury during the matchup against the Brooklyn Nets. The Warriors have managed to win without the shooting guard, but just barely. Therefore, the sooner he returns to the starting lineup, the better. Unfortunately, anyone hoping for some good news regarding the player right now should not build up their hopes too high.
According to the Golden State Warriors Injury Report, as highlighted by ESPN, Brandin Podziemski will continue to be ‘OUT’ for the upcoming game. This update comes amidst reports that Warriors coach Steve Kerr said Podziemski had not practiced Wednesday. According to CBS Sports, the team continues to take a cautious approach with his back injury. To make things worse, Brandin Podziemski will completely feel lonely for being the only one left out of the Warriors-Kings game. After all, Jonathan Kuminga, who had been ‘OUT’ for the Warriors’ last 31 games, has now been declared ‘Probable’ on the report.
During the opening minute of the Warriors’ win over the Brooklyn Nets a week ago, Brandin Podziemski exited the game. He could not even score a single point, rebound, or assist in the brief minute he was on the court. He left the sideline, entered the locker room, and was ruled out for the remainder of the game with a lower back injury. While the Warriors won in their next game against the Detroit Pistons, Podziemski’s presence could have improved things a bit. After all, Stephen Curry and co secured the victory only by a 115-110 score! The Warriors performed better in their next game, as the squad won against the Portland Trail Blazers by a 130-120 score.
Brandin Podziemski being sidelined means the Warriors will continue leaning on Moses Moody, Gary Payton II, and Buddy Hield. Stephen Curry might also reportedly remain in the backcourt.
via Imago
As for the Sacramento Kings, the injury status of their squad is almost on par with the Warriors. Jake LaRavia, who missed the Kings’ previous game against the New York Knicks due to a knee injury, has been listed as ‘Questionable’. Jae Crowder is on a ‘Day-To-Day’ basis after being absent from the lineup since mid-January due to lower-back soreness. Domantas Sabonis now holds a ‘Questionable’ status after having missed the last five games for the Kings due to a hamstring injury. As reported by Sean Cunningham of Fox 40 Sacramento, Sabonis was there to participate in Wednesday’s practice session. This raises hope for his availability, despite a ‘Questionable’ status.
In light of these updates, both teams will have to make adjustments to their starting lineups.
What will be the starting lineup and depth chart for the Warriors-Kings game?
The starting lineup for the Golden State Warriors will look something like this:
Similarly, the starting lineup for the Sacramento Kings will look like this:
The Golden State Warriors or the Sacramento Kings? Who will you be rooting for? Let us know in the comments section down below.