Another major positive for the Golden State Warriors in addition to preseason victory

The Golden State Warriors began their 2023-24 season on the right foot on Saturday night, defeating the Los Angeles Lakers 125-108 in a team-oriented performance in front of their home crowd at Chase Center.

Head coach Steve Kerr utilized all 18 of his available players during the game, with a plethora of positives to take forward from a Warrior perspective. One of those unavailable was veteran forward Draymond Green who continues his recovery from an ankle injury sustained before training camp.

According to a report, the Golden State Warriors are ‘sure’ that Draymond Green will be back for the season opener against the Phoenix Suns on October 24.

Speaking on NBA Today earlier in the week, ESPN’s Kendra Andrews revealed the former Defensive Player of the Year should be back for opening night, and could even play in the team’s final two preseason fixtures.

"“This means he’s going to miss at least their first three preseason games. They hope that he’ll be back for those final two, but they’re sure that he’ll be back by opening night,” Andrews said."

That’s a major update for the Warriors who were previously expected to be without the 33-year-old for 4-6 weeks. On Monday the franchise confirmed they would re-evaluate Green in two weeks, while the four-time All-Star characterized himself as a ‘fast healer’.

"“I feel good. I feel like I’m improving fast. I’m a pretty fast healer. Didn’t quite foresee this coming into the season but everything happens for a reason,” Green said during his media day press conference."

Green watched on from the sidelines as young forward Jonathan Kuminga shone in his absence on Saturday, with the former seventh overall pick recording 24 points, eight rebounds, four assists and two blocks in an exciting display.

Golden State’s preseason schedule will conclude with games at Chase Center against the Sacramento Kings (October 18) and San Antonio Spurs (October 20).