The Golden State Warriors and Denver Nuggets are set to clash in an NBA Cup game at the Ball Arena on Friday. The Nuggets, led by Nikola Jokic, are coming into this matchup as clear favorites with a perfect 4-0 home record. The absence of Steph Curry, due to illness, further strengthens the Nuggets’ advantage in this game.
With a 5-4 record, the Warriors currently hold the seventh spot in the Western Conference standings. On the other hand, the Nuggets are comfortably sitting in fourth place with a 5-2 record. Steph Curry’s absence takes away the blockbuster element from this game and poses a significant challenge for the Warriors.
Here are the starting lineups for both teams:
### Golden State Warriors Starting Lineup
The Warriors will see the return of Draymond Green, who missed the previous game, and possibly Jimmy Butler, who is listed as questionable with lower back soreness. Jonathan Kuminga will start on the wing, with Brandin Podziemski filling in for Curry. Quinten Post will handle the center position for the Warriors.
### Denver Nuggets Starting Lineup
The Nuggets have a set starting lineup with Nikola Jokic, Jamal Murray, Aaron Gordon, Cam Johnson, and Christian Braun as their first five players. This lineup boasts an offensive rating of 115.4 and a defensive rating of 108.6 when on the floor together.
### Injury Reports
Steph Curry remains out with an illness for the Warriors, while Jimmy Butler is questionable with lower back soreness. Draymond Green is probable after missing the last game with a rib contusion. De’Anthony Melton is still recovering from a knee injury. On the Nuggets’ side, Zeke Nnaji is dealing with a right ankle sprain but is probable to play.
The stage is set for an exciting matchup between the Warriors and the Nuggets, with both teams looking to secure a crucial win. Stay tuned for more updates on this highly anticipated game.
