The Golden State Warriors are heading into tonight’s matchup against the Phoenix Suns with a roster that’s been thinned out by a flurry of trade deadline moves-and a growing list of injuries. After a surprisingly active final stretch before the deadline, Golden State will be without several key contributors, including their franchise cornerstone, Steph Curry.
Let’s break down where things stand ahead of tipoff.
Warriors: Short-Handed and Still Shuffling
Golden State made waves at the deadline by dealing away Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield, and Trayce Jackson-Davis, and bringing in Kristaps Porziņģis. But with the trades still pending finalization-physicals need to be completed-the new faces aren’t suiting up just yet. That leaves the Warriors in a bit of a limbo, with several players unavailable and others still finding their footing.
Out - Steph Curry (right patellofemoral pain syndrome)
Curry remains sidelined with what’s commonly referred to as "runner’s knee."
It’s not considered a long-term issue, but there’s no clear timetable for his return. Without him, the Warriors lose not just their offensive engine but also the gravity he creates every time he steps on the floor.
His absence is always felt, but especially now, when the team is in transition.
Out - Jimmy Butler III (right ACL tear)
Butler is out for the long haul after tearing his ACL.
Surgery is scheduled for Monday, and while the team held onto him through the deadline, the expectation is that his recovery will keep him off the court until sometime next season-likely early 2027. He remains part of the long-term picture, but his injury is a tough blow for a team needing depth.
Out - Seth Curry (left sciatic nerve irritation)
Seth Curry has only logged two games this season, and the sciatic nerve issue continues to keep him out. He’ll be re-evaluated over the All-Star break, but for now, the Warriors are without another perimeter threat who could’ve helped ease the scoring load.
Out - LJ Cryer (left hamstring injury)
Cryer’s hamstring continues to be a problem, and it’s unfortunate timing.
With the roster so depleted, he likely would’ve seen meaningful minutes tonight. Instead, he remains sidelined, unable to capitalize on a golden opportunity.
Out - Kristaps Porziņģis (not with team)
Porziņģis is technically not listed on the injury report, but he won’t be in uniform.
The trade hasn’t been finalized yet, which means the Warriors can’t officially debut their new big man. Once cleared, Porziņģis could bring a much-needed scoring punch and rim protection to a team that’s lacked size and consistency in the paint.
Questionable - De’Anthony Melton (left knee soreness)
Melton remains a question mark for tonight.
The Warriors held onto him through the deadline, which suggests they see him as part of their future plans. But whether he suits up tonight is still uncertain.
If he’s able to go, his defensive versatility and ability to guard multiple positions would be a welcome addition.
Suns: Also Missing Their Star
It’s not just the Warriors who are shorthanded. The Suns will also be without their All-Star centerpiece, which takes some shine off what could’ve been a marquee matchup. Fans tuning in will miss the star power, but there’s still plenty to watch as both teams navigate these post-deadline adjustments.
Out - Draymond Green (left ankle sprain)
Green was a key return piece in the Kevin Durant trade but has only played in two games for Phoenix so far. He’s still out with a left ankle sprain, delaying what the Suns hope will be a long-term impact from the former No. 2 overall pick.
Not with team - Cole Anthony, Amir Coffey
Like Porziņģis on the Warriors’ side, Anthony and Coffey aren’t officially on the injury report because the trade hasn’t been finalized.
The outgoing players-Nick Richards and Nigel Hayes-Davis-are still listed instead. Once the dust settles and the deals are official, the Suns will have some new tools in their rotation.
What to Expect
This game won’t feature the full-strength versions of either team, but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing at stake. For the Warriors, it’s a chance to see how the remaining pieces fit together while they wait on reinforcements. For the Suns, it's about staying afloat in a tight Western Conference race while integrating new talent.
With tipoff set for 7:00 p.m. PT on Prime, both fanbases will be watching closely-not just for the outcome on the scoreboard, but for signs of what’s to come in the second half of the season.