The Golden State Warriors are eyeing something that’s been surprisingly elusive lately: back-to-back wins. It’s been over two weeks since they last strung together consecutive victories, though to be fair, they’ve only played four games in that stretch.
Still, for a team with championship DNA, that’s not the kind of rhythm they’re used to. Tonight, they’ll try to find their footing against a young, rising Orlando Magic squad at Chase Center - and they’re getting a few key pieces back just in time.
Golden State was short-handed in Saturday’s win, missing Jonathan Kuminga due to illness and losing Draymond Green to an early ejection. But both are expected to be back in the mix tonight, giving the Warriors a much-needed boost on both ends of the floor. Kuminga’s athleticism and defensive versatility have been a spark off the bench, while Green’s presence - for all the chaos he sometimes brings - remains central to how this team communicates and competes defensively.
Warriors Injury Report
Out - Al Horford (right sciatic nerve irritation)
Horford remains sidelined, marking his seventh straight missed game and his 17th absence in 30 contests overall this season.
At 37, the veteran big man has been battling through a tough stretch physically. The Warriors are clearly playing the long game here, hoping to preserve Horford for when it really counts - the playoff push and beyond.
Out - Seth Curry (left glute injury management)
It’s been a while since we’ve seen Seth Curry suit up.
After a promising debut, injuries and a string of DNPs have limited him to just two appearances this year, with the last one coming back on December 4. His shooting could be a valuable weapon off the bench, but for now, the younger Curry remains in wait-and-see mode.
Magic Injury Report
Out - Franz Wagner (left high ankle sprain)
This is a tough blow for Orlando.
Franz Wagner was in the midst of a breakout season, averaging 22.7 points per game while knocking down 36% of his threes. He suffered a high ankle sprain just over two weeks ago and could be sidelined through the end of the calendar year.
Without him, the Magic lose their most dynamic scorer and a key piece of their perimeter defense.
Out - Mo Wagner (left knee injury recovery)
Mo Wagner, Franz’s older brother, has yet to log a minute this season as he works his way back from an ACL injury. The big man’s return appears to be on the horizon, but he won’t be available tonight.
Questionable - Jalen Suggs (unspecified)
If Suggs is unable to go, that’s a significant break for Golden State.
The former lottery pick is having a strong fifth season, showing growth as a two-way guard who brings energy, physicality, and improved decision-making to the Magic backcourt. He hasn’t played in over a week, and his status will be worth watching leading up to tipoff.
Questionable - Gui Santos Da Silva (shoulder injury)
The 18th overall pick in 2024, Da Silva has been quietly impressive in his sophomore campaign.
The Brazilian-German forward brings size, skill, and a growing confidence to Orlando’s rotation. He’s been out with a shoulder injury and hasn’t played in over a week.
Whether he suits up or not, the Magic are clearly invested in his development.
Looking Ahead
Tonight’s game is the Warriors’ final tune-up before a high-profile Christmas Day matchup against Klay Thompson and the Dallas Mavericks - a game that will carry plenty of emotional weight and playoff implications. But first, they’ll need to handle business against an Orlando team that’s missing some firepower but still plays hard, defends well, and has shown it can hang with just about anyone.
For Golden State, the formula is simple: defend with discipline, get Steph Curry going early, and keep the ball moving. With Kuminga and Green back in the fold, the Warriors have the tools to do just that. Now it’s about execution - and finally building some momentum heading into the holiday spotlight.