OKC Thunder Secures Lottery Pick in 2026 NBA Draft via Clippers Trade The Oklahoma City Thunder have locked in a potential lottery pick in the 2026 NBA Draft, thanks to the Los Angeles Clippers’ elimination by the Golden State Warriors in the NBA Play-In Tournament. The outcome of the Warriors’ upcoming game against the Phoenix Suns will determine whether the Thunder receive the No. 1 or No. 2 pick in June’s draft, with the team’s odds tied to the result of that matchup. The Thunder’s path to a top-tier selection stems from a 2019 trade with the Clippers, which granted them the right to swap picks in the 2026 draft. If the Warriors secure the No. 8 seed in the playoffs by defeating the Suns, the Thunder will have an 11th-best chance (2%) of landing the top pick. If the Warriors lose, the Thunder’s odds drop to 1.5% for the No. 2 pick. This swap positions the Thunder to compete for one of the most coveted selections in the draft, which is expected to feature high-profile prospects like Kansas’ Darryn Peterson, BYU’s AJ Dybantsa, and Duke’s Cameron Boozer. Beyond the Clippers trade, the Thunder also hold multiple first-round picks from prior deals. One of these is a top-four protected pick from the Philadelphia 76ers, acquired in a 2020 trade involving Terrance Ferguson, Danny Green, and Vincent Poirier. The 76ers’ pick, which was top-six protected in 2025, now carries top-four protection for 2026 and will convey this season since the 76ers are projected as the No. 7 seed in the Eastern Conference playoffs. Another first-round pick comes from the Utah Jazz, acquired in a 2021 trade for Derrick Favors. The Jazz’s 2024 pick, originally top-10 protected, now has top-eight protection for 2026.#los_angeles_clippers #oklahoma_city_thunder #phoenix_suns #philadelphia_76ers #golden_state_warriors
NBA Play-In Tournament: Live Updates from Wednesday's Matchups The NBA play-in tournament continued on Wednesday as four teams vied for a chance to secure a playoff berth. The night’s action featured two high-stakes matchups: an Eastern Conference clash between the Orlando Magic and Philadelphia 76ers, and a Western Conference showdown between the LA Clippers and Golden State Warriors. The outcomes of these games would determine which teams advance to face the second-seeded Boston Celtics and Phoenix Suns, respectively, in the next round. In the Eastern Conference, the Magic and 76ers faced off in a critical game. The winner would face the Celtics in a potential first-round playoff matchup, while the loser would be forced to play the Charlotte Hornets on Friday for the No. 8 seed. The Hornets had already advanced by defeating the Miami Heat 127-126 in overtime on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Magic entered the game with a 45-37 record, matching the 76ers’ record despite the latter team winning the season series. The Magic had won five consecutive games before dropping their final regular-season contest against the Celtics, who had rested key players. The 76ers, meanwhile, had rebounded from a three-game losing streak with back-to-back victories to close the season. The Western Conference matchup between the Clippers and Warriors was equally significant. The game pitted two former NBA Finals MVPs—Stephen Curry and Kawhi Leonard—against each other for the first time in a play-in game, according to ESPN Research. Leonard, who averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game with 6.4 rebounds and 1.9 steals, had led the Warriors to a 3-1 series advantage over the Clippers during the regular season.#orlando_magic #philadelphia_76ers #golden_state_warriors #la_clippers #nba_play_in_tournament
Lakers’ Luke Kennard thriving in new role with increased on-ball usage The Los Angeles Lakers’ Luke Kennard has emerged as a pivotal player in the team’s late-season push, transitioning from a primary 3-point shooter to a key playmaker with increased on-ball responsibilities. This shift has been driven by the absence of key ball-handlers Luka Doncic and Austin Reaves due to injuries, forcing head coach JJ Redick to reevaluate Kennard’s role. Redick acknowledged the long-standing perception of Kennard as a shooter, a label that has followed him since his early basketball days. However, the coach emphasized that Kennard’s value extends far beyond his shooting ability, particularly in the team’s current circumstances. Redick highlighted the challenges Kennard has faced throughout his career, noting that the stigma surrounding his role as a white player with a high shooting percentage has often overshadowed his versatility. “It’s easy because he’s a white guy that shoots well, to just think he’s just a shooter,” Redick said after a recent win over the Golden State Warriors. “That’s just the reality of the situation.” Despite this, Kennard has proven his adaptability, stepping into a more central role as the Lakers’ fill-in point guard. The turning point came during a critical period for the Lakers, following the injuries to Doncic and Reaves. Redick and Kennard engaged in a conversation in Dallas, where the injuries occurred, to discuss the need for Kennard to take on greater responsibilities. Kennard expressed confidence in his ability to handle the increased workload, stating, “He came right to me and was like, ‘Hey, you’re going to have the ball in your hands a lot, and we need you to do that.#lakers #jj_redick #dallas_mavericks #golden_state_warriors #luke_kennard
Kawhi Leonard Injury: Won't Play Sunday Kawhi Leonard has been ruled out for Sunday’s game against the Golden State Warriors due to a left ankle sprain, according to a report from The Athletic. The decision means the Los Angeles Clippers’ star forward will miss their regular-season finale, with his next opportunity to play coming in the NBA Play-In Tournament. Leonard’s absence marks the end of his 2025-26 regular season, which saw him deliver standout performances that helped the Clippers secure a strong position in the Western Conference standings. The injury, which occurred during the final stretch of the regular season, has forced Leonard to sit out the remainder of the campaign. His absence will be a significant loss for the Clippers, as he has been a key contributor to their success this season. Despite the setback, the team remains optimistic about his recovery and his potential impact in the upcoming Play-In Tournament, where a win could secure a playoff berth. Leonard’s performance this season has been nothing short of extraordinary. Over the course of 65 regular-season games, he averaged a career-high 27.9 points per game, along with 6.4 rebounds, 3.6 assists, and 1.9 steals in 32.1 minutes per contest. His ability to score from multiple areas of the court, combined with his defensive versatility, has made him one of the most valuable players in the league. The Clippers’ coaching staff and medical team have expressed confidence in his ability to recover fully, though the timeline for his return to full action remains uncertain. The Clippers’ regular-season finale against the Warriors will be a crucial test for the team as they aim to solidify their position in the standings.#los_angeles_clippers #kawhi_Leonard #golden_state_warriors #nba_play_in_tournament #nba_regular_season
Golden State Warriors vs. Los Angeles Clippers: A Competitive NBA Regular Season Clash The Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Clippers faced off in a tightly contested NBA Regular Season game at the Intuit Dome on April 12, 2026. The Warriors, visiting the home court of the Clippers, struggled to keep pace with the host team’s aggressive play, as the Clippers maintained a consistent lead throughout the contest. The game, which drew significant attention from fans and analysts alike, showcased the competitive nature of the league and highlighted the evolving dynamics between two teams vying for playoff positioning. The first quarter saw the Clippers establish an early advantage, with the score reading 29-36 in favor of Los Angeles by the end of the period. The Warriors, however, fought back in the second quarter, closing the gap to a 4-point deficit. Key moments included a 10-6 run by the Clippers that forced a Warriors timeout, as the home team’s dominance seemed to be on the rise. Despite the Warriors’ efforts, the Clippers extended their lead to 5 points at halftime, with the score standing at 48-52. The third quarter proved to be a pivotal segment of the game. The Clippers continued their strong performance, with Steph Curry and Brandin Podziemski sinking crucial three-pointers to keep the lead at 4 points. However, the Warriors mounted a brief comeback, going on a 6-point run to narrow the gap. The Clippers, however, quickly regained control, with a 5-0 run that solidified their lead. The Warriors’ inability to sustain momentum became evident as the Clippers’ defense held firm, limiting the Warriors’ scoring opportunities. By the fourth quarter, the Clippers had extended their lead to 8 points, with the score at 52-60.#los_angeles_clippers #darius_garland #golden_state_warriors #intuit_dome #steph_curry
LA Clippers Sit Kawhi Leonard Out for Play-In Tournament INGLEWOOD, Calif. -- The Los Angeles Clippers have decided to sit Kawhi Leonard for their regular-season finale against the Golden State Warriors on Sunday night, as part of a strategy to ensure his full recovery ahead of the upcoming play-in tournament. Coach Tyronn Lue confirmed the decision, citing ongoing issues with Leonard’s wrist and ankle, which have plagued him in recent weeks. “He’s been dealing with some things the last couple weeks with his wrist and with his ankle,” Lue said before the game, “so we just thought it would be smart just to get him as close to 100% as we can get him.” Leonard, who has been a cornerstone of the Clippers’ offense this season, averaged a career-high 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 3.6 assists during a mostly healthy campaign. His performance helped the Clippers secure a strong regular-season finish, though his availability has been inconsistent due to injury concerns. This season, he played in 68 games, which is his second-most games as a Clipper, following a limited 37-game season in 2024-25 due to injuries. Lue emphasized the importance of Leonard’s role in the team’s success, noting his ability to carry the squad during tough stretches. “Just being healthy, being able to play in back-to-backs, being able to carry this team when we're down,” Lue said, “just happy for him to be able to get back on the floor for a lot of games this year.” The decision to sit Leonard for the final game of the regular season ended his career-high streak of 57 consecutive games with 20 or more points, a mark that ties him with Bob McAdoo for the longest in franchise history.#los_angeles_clippers #kawhi_leonard #golden_state_warriors #stephen_curry #tyronn_lue
Did Stephen Curry face LeBron James this season? Lakers star shares candid take on rare coincidence Stephen Curry and LeBron James, two of the NBA’s most iconic players, did not face each other during the 2023-24 regular season, marking a rare absence in their storied rivalry. The Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors, longtime adversaries, never met on the court this year due to a combination of injuries and scheduling conflicts. LeBron James, who returned to the Lakers after a brief hiatus, led his team to a 119-103 victory over the Warriors in a pivotal matchup, but Curry was sidelined with a lingering knee injury that kept him out of the final three games of the series. The absence of their annual showdown was a notable moment for fans and analysts alike, as the duo’s matchups have historically defined the league’s competitive landscape. LeBron, reflecting on the missed opportunities, admitted that neither he nor Curry fully realized the extent of their separation until the final game. “We actually talked about it a little bit. We both didn’t even realize it until today,” LeBron said. “I was like: ‘We haven’t played against each other this year.’ I didn’t even realize that until actually seeing it and they broke down the games.” The two players acknowledged the unpredictability of their schedules, noting that injuries and timing have consistently kept them apart. Their rivalry has been a defining feature of the NBA for over a decade, spanning four consecutive NBA Finals series and countless regular-season encounters. From their early days as emerging stars to their current roles as veteran leaders, their matchups have often been the highlight of the season. However, this year’s absence underscored the challenges of maintaining such a consistent rivalry.#lebron_james #nba #los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #stephen_curry
Lakers Defeat Warriors in High-Stakes Showdown The Los Angeles Lakers secured a decisive 119-103 victory over the Golden State Warriors in a highly anticipated matchup at Chase Center on Thursday, April 10, 2026. LeBron James led the charge with 26 points, 11 assists, and eight rebounds, showcasing his enduring dominance despite the challenges of his age and the uncertainty surrounding his future in the league. The game marked a rare absence for James’ longtime rival, Stephen Curry, who sat out due to a strategic decision by the Warriors to protect his recovering right knee after a 27-game absence. James’ performance was a testament to his resilience, as he shot 11 of 17 from the field, including three three-pointers. His efforts were briefly interrupted in the third quarter when he exited the game after appearing to jam his hand while blocking a shot by Pat Spencer. The injury sidelined him for a short period, but the Lakers’ offense continued to thrive, fueled by a balanced attack. The team’s fourth consecutive win on Warriors’ home floor snapped a three-game losing streak, highlighting their growing dominance in the Western Conference. Curry’s absence had a noticeable impact on the Warriors’ offensive rhythm. The team, already facing a challenging season with a 41st starting lineup of the year, was down to just 10 healthy players. Despite this, Brandin Podziemski and Nate Williams each contributed 17 points, while newly signed center Charles Bassey delivered a double-double with 12 points and 13 rebounds. Spencer added 12 points, six assists, and four rebounds, but the Warriors struggled to match the Lakers’ energy and execution. The Warriors’ bench also faced setbacks, as forward LJ Cryer limped off the court with an ankle injury in the third quarter.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #stephen_curry #chase_center
Pat Spencer Reflects On Increased Role In Warriors' Win Over Kings The Golden State Warriors’ recent victory over the Sacramento Kings highlighted a significant shift in the team’s lineup, driven by a wave of injuries that has forced key players to step into unfamiliar roles. With multiple starters sidelined and Steph Curry still managing his minutes due to a lingering injury, the Warriors have seen a reshuffling of their roster, providing opportunities for players like Pat Spencer to take on more responsibility. In the 110-105 win over the Kings on Wednesday, Spencer emerged as a pivotal figure, logging an unprecedented 41 minutes on the court—a milestone that underscores the team’s current challenges and his growing importance to the roster. Spencer’s increased playing time came after a season marked by inconsistent minutes and limited opportunities. The Warriors, dealing with a string of injuries, have had to rely on depth players to fill gaps, and Spencer has become a reliable presence in that role. His 41-minute performance against the Kings was the first time he has exceeded 40 minutes in a game, surpassing his previous career high of 38 minutes, which he set in a game against the San Antonio Spurs earlier this season. That game, in which Nate Williams played 47 minutes due to a lack of healthy options, set a precedent for how the Warriors have been forced to adapt their strategy. After the game, Spencer reflected on the physical and mental demands of his extended role. “I’m pretty wiped,” he said, acknowledging the toll of playing such a long stretch. “The first half was better, but the second half I lost my legs a little bit. But ultimately, I’m just happy we came out with a win.#sacramento_kings #golden_state_warriors #steve_kerr #pat_spencer #nate_williams
Warriors' Pat Spencer to Start Tuesday Pat Spencer is set to make his first start of the season on Tuesday as the Golden State Warriors take on the Sacramento Kings. The decision came after Will Richard (back) was ruled out for the game, creating an opportunity for Spencer to step into the starting lineup. This marks Spencer’s first start since March 7, when he last opened the game. Spencer, who has been a key contributor off the bench this season, is expected to bring his usual energy and playmaking skills to the starting role. Over his 12 games as a starter this season, Spencer has averaged 11.2 points, 5.2 assists, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 27.9 minutes per contest. His ability to distribute the ball and create opportunities for teammates has made him a valuable asset to the Warriors’ offense. The Warriors’ coaching staff has been cautious about overloading Spencer with minutes, as they aim to balance his contributions with the team’s overall strategy. However, with Richard’s absence, Spencer’s role is likely to expand, giving him a chance to showcase his versatility and leadership on the court. Spencer’s performance in limited minutes has been a bright spot for the Warriors, particularly in games where the team has needed a spark off the bench. His ability to score efficiently while maintaining defensive intensity has made him a reliable option in crunch time. Coaches have praised his work ethic and adaptability, noting that his presence has helped elevate the play of his teammates. The Warriors’ roster has seen several changes this season, and Spencer’s transition from a bench player to a starter reflects the team’s evolving dynamics.#sacramento_kings #golden_state_warriors #pat_spencer #will_richard #warriors_coaching_staff
Sacramento Kings Cleared in Intentional Foul Investigation The National Basketball Association (NBA) has concluded its investigation into allegations that the Sacramento Kings intentionally fouled the Golden State Warriors during a game on April 7, 2026. The league’s findings, announced on April 9, 2026, determined that the Kings did not act with malice or intent to disadvantage the Warriors. Instead, the investigation revealed that head coach Doug Christie made a critical error in judgment, believing the Warriors were not in the penalty, and instructed his team to foul late in the game to stop the clock and utilize a remaining timeout. The NBA statement emphasized that the league’s review of the incident found no evidence of intentional foul play or deliberate efforts to lose the game. Christie’s decision, while misguided, was based on a misinterpretation of the game’s circumstances. The league clarified that the Kings’ actions were not part of a coordinated strategy to harm the Warriors but rather a tactical miscalculation. The investigation concluded that the team’s actions were unintentional and did not violate any league rules or ethical standards. The incident occurred during a high-stakes matchup between the Kings and the Warriors, with both teams vying for playoff positioning in the Western Conference. The game, played on April 7, saw the Kings fall to the Warriors, but the NBA’s ruling absolved the team of any wrongdoing. The league’s statement underscored its commitment to transparency and fairness, stating that the investigation was thorough and based on objective evidence. Coach Christie’s decision to foul was rooted in a misunderstanding of the game’s flow.#sacramento_kings #national_basketball_association #golden_state_warriors #western_conference #doug_christie
Sacramento Kings' Late Foul Under Scrutiny as NBA Investigates Potential Tactical Error The NBA is examining whether a controversial late-game foul called by Sacramento Kings coach Doug Christie during Tuesday’s loss to the Golden State Warriors was a strategic misstep rather than an intentional tanking tactic. According to sources familiar with the situation, Christie’s decision to foul Seth Curry with 3:15 remaining in the game was a miscalculation, not a deliberate effort to lose. The Kings were leading by one at the time, and Christie’s plan to use a timeout before the clock dropped below three minutes backfired when the Warriors were already in the penalty. The foul was intended to disrupt the Warriors’ rhythm, but sources explained that Christie failed to account for Curry’s high free-throw accuracy (86.4%) and the fact that the Warriors were already in the bonus. This meant fouling Curry would send him to the line, where he could potentially extend the Kings’ lead. Instead, the Kings lost 110-105, with Curry making one of two free throws to tie the game at 101. Christie then called an out-of-timeout play for a 3-point shot by Doug McDermott, which succeeded in giving Sacramento a three-point lead. However, the Kings eventually relinquished that advantage in the final minutes, dropping to 21-59 and tying the Utah Jazz for the league’s fourth-worst record. The incident gained further attention after the game when Warriors forward Draymond Green criticized the Kings’ approach during a postgame exchange about the NBA’s tanking epidemic. Green, who has previously spoken out against perceived tanking strategies, accused the Kings of intentionally losing the game. “I saw a team tonight foul Seth Curry with three minutes to go for no reason,” Green said. “I get fined when I do wrong.#sacramento_kings #golden_state_warriors #draymond_green #doug_christie #seth_curry
NBA Injury Updates: Curry, Brown, Green, and Others Miss Key Games The Golden State Warriors have ruled out star guard Stephen Curry for Thursday’s game against the Los Angeles Lakers, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater. Curry, who returned earlier this week from a knee injury after sitting out for over two months, will be held out of the game as the team takes a cautious approach with its leading scorer and most valuable player. The decision means Curry will miss the matchup against the Lakers, though he is expected to return for Friday’s game against the Sacramento Kings. This absence also ensures that Curry and Lakers star LeBron James will not face each other during the 2025 season. James missed their first meeting in the fall due to sciatica, and Curry missed the subsequent two games as a result of his knee injury. Additional injury updates from across the NBA include the Boston Celtics, who are still in the race for the No. 2 seed in the Eastern Conference. However, they will not be at full strength for their Thursday game against the New York Knicks. Star wing Jaylen Brown is sidelined with a left Achilles tendinitis injury, as confirmed by the team. The Celtics will face a back-to-back set, but it remains unclear whether Brown will be available for Friday’s game against the New Orleans Pelicans. Jalen Green, the former No. 2 overall pick for the Houston Rockets, suffered a right leg injury early in the first quarter of Wednesday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks. Green did not return to the game, according to Duane Rankin of The Arizona Republic. The injury occurred during a critical moment in the matchup, and Green wore a sleeve at halftime before being ruled out. Fellow Suns guard Jordan Goodwin also exited Wednesday’s game due to a left ankle injury sustained in the second quarter.#boston_celtics #lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #stephen_curry
Stephen Curry and LeBron James Missed a Historic NBA Rivalry Matchup Tonight’s matchup between the Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors at Chase Center was meant to be a defining moment for NBA fans, but it never happened. Stephen Curry, one of the league’s most iconic players, was sidelined due to a back-to-back schedule, leaving the door closed on a potential showdown between two of the sport’s greatest legends. The absence of Curry, who has long been a cornerstone of the Warriors’ success, marked the end of a season without a single game between the two stars. The rivalry between Curry and LeBron James has been a cornerstone of modern NBA history, spanning over a decade of intense competition. Their head-to-head regular-season matchups have produced legendary moments, with LeBron averaging 30.2 points on 20.9 field goal attempts across 27 games, while Curry countered with 24.9 points and 6.5 assists in the same contests. The two have consistently elevated their games against each other, creating box scores that highlight their individual brilliance and the high stakes of their battles. The playoff history between the two franchises is even more dramatic. LeBron has averaged 31.3 points, 10.9 rebounds, and 8.5 assists per game across 28 playoff matchups, while Curry has contributed 25.6 points and 6.5 assists. These numbers reflect the immense pressure and significance of their encounters, which have included four NBA Finals series and multiple Western Conference playoff battles. The rivalry has become a symbol of the NBA’s competitive landscape, with both players carrying the weight of their franchises’ legacies. Despite their storied history, the 2024 season saw the two teams face each other twice, with the Lakers emerging victorious in both games.#lebron_james #los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #stephen_curry #chase_center
Lakers at Warriors: Preview, How to Watch, Injury Report, Lineups April 9, 2026, 3:00 p.m. PT The Golden State Warriors and Los Angeles Lakers are set to face off in a high-stakes regular-season matchup at Chase Center in San Francisco. The game, scheduled for Thursday, will feature a mix of strategic adjustments and roster limitations as both teams navigate a challenging slate of games with key players sidelined due to injuries and illnesses. The Warriors, aiming to secure a strong finish to their 2025-26 campaign, will be missing several key contributors, while the Lakers, despite their strong overall record, will also be without two of their most impactful stars. The Warriors, who entered the game with a 37-42 record and a #10 seed in the Western Conference, will be without star guard Steph Curry, who is undergoing injury management, and forward Kristaps Porzingis, who is sidelined due to illness management and right knee soreness. Other notable absences include Al Horford (right soleus strain), Moses Moody (left patellar tendon rupture), Quinten Post (right foot injury management), and Will Richard (bilateral lower back strain). The team will rely on younger players and role contributors to fill the gaps, with Draymond Green, De'Anthony Melton, and Brandin Podziemski expected to play pivotal roles in containing the Lakers’ star power. The Lakers, meanwhile, will be missing Luka Doncic (left hamstring strain) and Austin Reaves (left oblique muscle strain), two of their most dynamic offensive threats. With LeBron James still in the lineup, the Warriors will need to implement a defensive strategy focused on limiting his impact, a task that will fall to Green, Melton, and Podziemski.#los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #draymond_green #chase_center #steph_curry
Anthony Davis Reflects on Departures from Lakers, Pelicans in Draymond Green Podcast Anthony Davis opened up about the end of his NBA careers with the Los Angeles Lakers and New Orleans Pelicans during an episode of “The Draymond Green Show,” hosted by Golden State Warriors star Draymond Green. The 10-time All-Star, who recently joined the Washington Wizards after a contentious trade, detailed his frustrations with how both franchises handled his departures, emphasizing his desire for transparency and respect during transitions. Davis’s tenure with the Lakers, where he played alongside LeBron James and won a championship in 2020, ended abruptly in 2023 when he was traded to the Dallas Mavericks in a blockbuster deal involving Luka Dončić. Despite the Lakers’ decision, Davis expressed confusion and disappointment over the lack of communication. “From the business standpoint, I can’t be mad. But, like, why? I just couldn’t fathom, I couldn’t understand it. And nobody told me nothing. Nobody said a thing to me. So you just catch me off guard, like, yeah, ‘You traded to Dallas,’” he recounted. He reiterated his belief that the Lakers should have provided more clarity, especially given his six-year contribution to the team and their championship success. “All the time I’ve been here — s*, I was there six years — all the time I’ve been here and all the time, we won a championship, all this stuff and I can’t get a phone call or a text to tell me, like, ‘Look, this is what we’re thinking,’” Davis said. While he acknowledged the trade’s logic from the Lakers’ perspective, he admitted to fantasizing about joining Dončić in Los Angeles after LeBron’s retirement. Davis’s departure from the Pelicans was equally abrupt.#los_angeles_lakers #golden_state_warriors #new_orleans_pelicans #draymond_green #anthony_davis
Alperen Sengun Flirts with Triple-Double in Sunday's Win Over Warriors The Houston Rockets secured a narrow 117-116 victory over the Golden State Warriors on Sunday night, with Alperen Sengun delivering a standout performance that brought him perilously close to a triple-double. The 23-year-old forward recorded 24 points (10-19 from the field, 1-5 from beyond the arc, 3-3 from the free-throw line), six rebounds, seven assists, and two blocks, showcasing his versatility and impact on both ends of the floor. Sengun’s ability to contribute in multiple facets of the game highlighted his growing importance to the Rockets’ offensive and defensive schemes. Sengun’s performance continued a remarkable stretch of dominance, as he has consistently posted double-digit points, rebounds, and assists in each of his last five games. During this span, the Turkish international has averaged 13.2 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 4.4 assists per contest, while also contributing 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks. His ability to create opportunities for teammates and secure crucial rebounds has made him a reliable fantasy asset for managers seeking reliable production from the Houston starting five. The Rockets’ victory over the Warriors marked a pivotal moment in their season, as the team continues to navigate the competitive Western Conference. Sengun’s contributions were instrumental in the Rockets’ ability to maintain their lead in the standings, particularly in the fourth quarter when the Warriors mounted a late rally. His 24 points and seven assists helped Houston sustain its offensive momentum, while his defensive presence—highlighted by two blocks—prevented Golden State from gaining a critical edge in the final minutes. Sengun’s season averages of 20.6 points, 8.8 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.2 steals, and 1.#nba #houston_rockets #golden_state_warriors #alperen_sengun #western_conference
Final Injury Report for Kings-Warriors: Will Stephen Curry, Kristaps Porzingis Play? The Golden State Warriors and Sacramento Kings are set to face off in a Western Conference matchup on Tuesday night, with both teams navigating challenging circumstances ahead of the game. The Warriors, coming off a home loss to the Houston Rockets on Sunday, enter the contest with a 36-42 record. Stephen Curry led the team with 29 points and four assists off the bench, while Brandin Podziemski contributed 18 points and three assists. The Warriors aim to rebound from the defeat, though they face potential limitations due to their injury-laden roster. Sacramento, meanwhile, carries a 21-58 record into Tuesday’s game after a home loss to the Los Angeles Clippers. Devin Carter paced the Kings with 21 points, five rebounds, and five assists, while Nique Clifford added 18 points and five rebounds. The Kings, already struggling this season, will be without several key players due to injuries, further complicating their path to a win. The Warriors’ injury report highlights significant concerns, with eight players listed as unavailable or questionable. Stephen Curry, the team’s star guard, is listed as probable despite a lingering right knee injury. He is expected to play but may be limited in minutes as he returns from a 27-game absence. Curry’s availability is critical for the Warriors, who rely heavily on his scoring and playmaking. Kristaps Porzingis, the team’s center, is questionable due to right knee soreness and could miss his first game since April 1. Other Warriors players ruled out include Gui Santos (right pelvic contusion), Al Horford (right soleus strain), and Quinten Post (foot injury). Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody will miss the remainder of the season, further depleting the team’s depth.#sacramento_kings #golden_state_warriors #stephen_curry #kristaps_porzingis #devin_carter
Warriors Running Out of Time to Bring Steph Curry Back, and That's a Good Thing The Golden State Warriors are facing a critical decision as Stephen Curry’s injury timeline continues to stretch, and the team is increasingly leaning toward keeping him sidelined for the remainder of the 2025-26 season. Curry, who missed the Warriors’ win over the Washington Wizards on March 28, 2026, is expected to sit out at least one more game against the Denver Nuggets, extending his absence to 25 games since being diagnosed with “runner’s knee” following a game against the Detroit Pistons on January 30, 2026. While Curry has reportedly progressed to more intense individual drills, he has yet to receive clearance for full-contact scrimmages, a key step toward returning to action. Steve Kerr, the Warriors’ head coach, has already signaled that the team is prioritizing long-term health over short-term playoff chances. “We’re not bringing him back just for the play-in game,” Kerr said, per ESPN. “He’d need to play some games. We need to give him a runway if this is going to work. And we are running out of games. That’s fair to say.” This statement underscores the team’s growing belief that rushing Curry back could jeopardize his long-term recovery, especially given the severity of his knee injury and the risks of further damage. The Warriors’ decision to keep Curry out is not just about medical caution but also strategic. With the season effectively over for the team, the focus has shifted to maximizing their draft position in the 2026 NBA Draft. By allowing Curry to miss the final eight games of the regular season, the Warriors are positioning themselves to secure a high lottery pick, which could be traded for assets to build a competitive roster for the 2026-27 season.#golden_state_warriors #nba_draft #steve_kerr #stephen_curry #2026_nba_draft
Kristaps Porziņģis is enamored with Warriors seven weeks in SAN FRANCISCO — Kristaps Porziņģis has spent seven weeks with the Golden State Warriors, and early impressions suggest he is already considering re-signing with the team. The 30-year-old center, acquired to evaluate his health, game fit, and compatibility with the Warriors’ offense centered around Stephen Curry, has expressed admiration for the organization’s medical and training staff. His positive experience has positioned him favorably as an unrestricted free agent this summer. Porziņģis, who joined the team after a four-week absence due to left Achilles tendinitis, made his Warriors debut on Feb. 19 before being sidelined again by illness for six games. During his time with the team, he has developed a strong rapport with Dr. Rick Celebrini, the team’s medical director. Celebrini’s guidance has been instrumental in Porziņģis’ recovery, and the player has openly praised the staff’s expertise. “Rick’s amazing,” Porziņģis said after practice. “Rick is the goat, man. Really. I’m very happy with these guys, and I’m sure they will keep me on the same path.” This trust in the Warriors’ medical team is expected to play a significant role in his decision-making when he becomes a free agent. Despite his progress, Porziņģis remains cautious about his playing time. He acknowledged he is not yet in a position to handle high minutes, but he is working toward earning more opportunities. His ultimate goal is to play alongside Curry, a prospect that has become a focal point of his aspirations. Porziņģis and Curry have yet to share the court, as Curry’s return from a knee injury remains uncertain.#san_francisco #golden_state_warriors #stephen_curry #kristaps_porziis #dr_rick_celebrini
