When the Golden State Warriors take the floor Thursday night in Phoenix, they'll be down a couple of key contributors. Veteran big man Al Horford and guard Pat Spencer will both be sidelined, forcing head coach Steve Kerr to tap deeper into his bench as the team squares off against the Suns.
Horford continues to deal with a nagging sciatica issue that’s kept him out of action for most of the past few weeks. He’s missed seven of Golden State’s last eight games, including the last four straight. Thursday will mark his fifth consecutive absence, and according to ESPN’s Nick Friedell, the team doesn’t expect him back for at least another week as he works through the rehab process.
In his first season with the Warriors, Horford has appeared in just 13 games. He’s averaging 5.6 points per game on 32.1% shooting from the field and 29.8% from three, along with 4.4 rebounds.
Those numbers might not jump off the page, but Horford’s value has always been about more than just the box score. His presence in the locker room, ability to space the floor, and defensive IQ have all been key in helping younger players adjust to the Warriors’ system.
Without him, Golden State loses a stabilizing force in the frontcourt.
As for Spencer, he’ll miss Thursday’s game due to personal reasons. While he hasn’t been a major minute-eater this season, his absence still trims down the Warriors’ backcourt rotation and puts added pressure on the team’s depth.
With both players out, Kerr will likely turn to a mix of Quinten Post, Brandin Podziemski, De’Anthony Melton, and Gary Payton II to help fill the gaps. Post, the rookie big man, could see an uptick in minutes as the Warriors look for size and rim protection. Podziemski’s versatility and high basketball IQ make him a natural plug-and-play option, while Melton and Payton II bring defensive energy and experience to the perimeter.
Tip-off against the Suns is set for 6 p.m. PT in Phoenix. With Golden State navigating injuries and looking to build momentum, this matchup will be another test of the team’s resilience-and of Kerr’s ability to keep the rotation fluid while key pieces remain out.