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The Golden State Warriors will tip off their season without a key starter on Wednesday when they face the Los Angeles Lakers. Brandin Podziemski has been ruled out for the contest due to lower back soreness, according to NBA insider Anthony Slater.
The absence deals a blow to Golden State's offense and is particularly unfortunate for Podziemski, who was one of the league's most durable players last season, appearing in all 82 games.
Stephen Curry has been listed as probable for the Warriors, while backup big man Charles Bassey is expected to be a game-time decision. Additionally, Kristaps Porzingis, Moses Moody, and Jimmy Butler III have been ruled out, as expected.
For Los Angeles, Slater reported that big free agent signing Walker Kessler has been cleared to make his team debut. Veteran guard Collin Sexton is questionable after missing the preseason, while rookie Cameron Carr and sophomore Adou Thiero have been ruled out.
Key Analysis
Podziemski's absence puts additional pressure on Golden State's backcourt, especially with Curry only probable. The Warriors will need to rely on their depth to compensate for the loss of a player who was an iron man last season. Meanwhile, the Lakers get a boost with Kessler's debut, adding size and defensive presence to their frontcourt. Sexton's status remains uncertain, but his potential return would provide another scoring option off the bench.
Originally reported by yahoo.