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Golden State Warriors v Houston Rockets Preview: Superstar and young forward in doubt

By Peter O'Keefe

HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 20: Jabari Smith Jr. #1 of the Houston Rockets and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors meet after the conclusion of the game at Toyota Center on March 20, 2023 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)
HOUSTON, TEXAS - MARCH 20: Jabari Smith Jr. #1 of the Houston Rockets and Stephen Curry #30 of the Golden State Warriors meet after the conclusion of the game at Toyota Center on March 20, 2023 in Houston, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images) /
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The Golden State Warriors will be in search of early back-to-back road victories when they face the Houston Rockets at Toyoto Center on Sunday.

After a disappointing four-point loss to the Phoenix Suns in their season opener, the Warriors responded against the Sacramento Kings on Friday night thanks to a 41-point masterclass from Stephen Curry.

A pair of key Golden State Warriors players are in doubt for Sunday’s first night of a back-to-back against the Houston Rockets.

After the workload he embarked on at Golden 1 Center, Curry is questionable against the Rockets with left foot soreness. The same issue has third-year forward Jonathan Kuminga questionable too, with the 21-year-old having played an important 26 minutes against the Kings.

It’s better news for veteran forward Draymond Green who is set to play his first game of the season. The 33-year-old is listed as probable on the official injury report, however confirmed on Sunday that he would suit up against the Rockets.

Green’s return will heighten speculation on Steve Kerr’s starting lineup — will he be reinserted immediately in place of Chris Paul or Kevon Looney, or will the four time All-Star come off the bench himself as he ramps up his minutes? That question may be prolonged yet again if Curry were to be ruled out.

Jalen Green of the Houston Rockets dribbles against Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors during a game at Toyota Center on November 20, 2022. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images)
Jalen Green of the Houston Rockets dribbles against Draymond Green of the Golden State Warriors during a game at Toyota Center on November 20, 2022. (Photo by Alex Bierens de Haan/Getty Images) /

On the Rockets side, young forward Tari Eason and veteran Victor Oladipo remain out, while Jock Landale is also out in concussion protocols. After an offseason predicated on veteran free agent signings and a new head coach in Ime Udoka, it’s been more of the same disappointment for Houston over their first two games.

The Rockets were blown out in a 30-point loss against the Orlando Magic on Wednesday, before going down to the San Antonio Spurs in overtime on Friday. Despite the addition of 2019 NBA champion Fred VanVleet, Houston’s offense has proved ineffective to date in ranking 29th albeit with a small sample size.

However, the likes of VanVleet, Jalen Green, Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperun Sengun could make for a dangerous offensive combination. Golden State will also reignite their rivalry with Dillon Brooks who made his way from Memphis to Houston in free agency.

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The Rockets will be motivated to give a good account of themselves in their home opener, potentially causing concern for the Warriors should they find an early rhythm. This is ultimately a game Golden State should just bank as a win though if they’re serious about being championship contenders this season.

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