Pacific Division Roundup: Warriors’ Injury List Grows; Porzingis Settles In, Lopez Targets 20 Seasons, Ayton Driving Lakers
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San Francisco — The Golden State Warriors absorbed four new injuries Friday, adding to a roster already missing Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler.
Forward Draymond Green was scratched roughly 30 minutes before tip-off of a 122-109 loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves because of lower-back soreness. Center Al Horford exited after five minutes with tightness in his right calf, and head coach Steve Kerr said the veteran will “miss several games” as the club exercises caution. Guard Seth Curry limped to the locker room in the second quarter with left adductor soreness, while rookie big man Quinten Post sprained his left ankle.
“We’re about as beaten up as any team I can ever remember,” Kerr said. Friday marked Stephen Curry’s 16th straight absence; Golden State is 5-11 during that span and now heads out on a six-game road trip.
Porzingis a Bright Spot
Midseason pickup Kristaps Porzingis provided 20 points against Minnesota and believes his chemistry with teammates is improving. “Guys are getting accustomed to playing with me,” the 7-foot-3 forward said. “It’s progress. We’re heading in the right direction.”
Lopez Eyes Longevity
Los Angeles Clippers center Brook Lopez, in his 18th NBA season, told Andscape he hopes to reach at least 20 years in the league, citing idols Tim Duncan, Kobe Bryant and Kevin Garnett. The Clippers hold a $9,187,500 team option for 2026-27; since the All-Star break the 36-year-old is averaging 11.8 points and 5.1 rebounds.
Ayton’s Impact in L.A.
Lakers center Deandre Ayton has become a statistical bellwether. Los Angeles is 27-8 when he collects eight or more rebounds and 24-9 when he attempts at least eight shots. Ayton posted 23 points and 10 boards in Thursday’s win over the Chicago Bulls and owns an $8,104,000 player option for next season.
Source: HoopsRumors
