Veteran center Al Horford will sit out his 14th straight game Thursday as he continues to recover from a right soleus strain, but head coach Steve Kerr said the 39-year-old completed a full 5-on-5 scrimmage Wednesday and is “optimistic” Horford will be available for Friday’s matchup in Sacramento.
Kerr is also “hopeful” that forward Kristaps Porzingis—listed with general illness injury management and right knee soreness—will rejoin the lineup Friday. Porzingis missed Tuesday’s game and will remain sidelined Thursday against the Lakers.
Stephen Curry, who continues to progress after recent ailments, is on track to play Friday as well, according to Kerr.
Limited minutes together
Curry and Porzingis shared the floor for only nine minutes during Sunday’s loss to Houston, a stint shortened when Porzingis fouled out after 23 minutes. “I thought we have a lot more to prove out there,” Curry said, noting that additional game reps will help the entire roster build chemistry.
Family affair on the court
Sunday’s game also marked the first time this season that Stephen and his younger brother Seth Curry appeared together. Steph called the experience “special,” while Seth described it as a “dream come true,” adding that their mother was snapping photos from the stands.
Bassey makes early impact
Fifth-year center Charles Bassey drew praise from Kerr and forward Draymond Green after just two appearances with Golden State. In Tuesday’s victory, the Nigerian big man posted 14 points, 12 rebounds, two steals and two blocks, finishing plus-nine in 27 minutes. “I’m just trying to use this because you never know when your chance will come,” Bassey said.
The Warriors visit the Kings on Friday as they aim to get closer to full strength.
Source: Hoops Rumors
