Warriors Face Blazers in Preseason Opener Amid Injury Challenges

San Francisco, California — The Golden State Warriors will host the Portland Trail Blazers for their preseason opener on October 8, 2025, at Chase Center. The game is set to begin at 7 p.m. PST.

Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has indicated that he will rotate players liberally throughout the preseason, utilizing a different starting lineup in each game. The Warriors are coming off a 111-108 victory over the Los Angeles Lakers, with Moses Moody scoring 19 points in that match. As they take the court against the Blazers, Kerr will likely lean on a mix of veterans and younger talent, with players like Steph Curry, Draymond Green, and newly acquired Al Horford expected to play significant roles.

In contrast, the Trail Blazers are facing significant injury challenges. Franchise star Damian Lillard will miss the entire 2025-26 season due to an Achilles injury. Rising guard Scoot Henderson is also sidelined with a hamstring injury, leaving the Blazers with a depleted roster. Coach Chauncey Billups noted that injuries are forcing the team to rely on their bench and younger players, which could provide valuable experience heading into the regular season.

Tonight’s game will be a test of depth for both teams. The Warriors are relatively healthy, with only De’Anthony Melton unavailable, while the Blazers are trying to integrate new players like Jrue Holiday, who joins the starting lineup, possibly at point guard.

The matchup presents an opportunity for both teams to experiment with different lineups. Billups has expressed the importance of learning from tough teams like the Warriors, stating, “They’re the best in the world and have been doing it for over 10 years.” This sentiment underlines the educational aspect of facing a seasoned opponent.

The Warriors aim to hone their team chemistry and prepare for the upcoming regular season, while the Trail Blazers will look to build strength from adversity. Tonight’s game serves as an early indicator of how each franchise is approaching the new season.

With the game fast approaching, fans are keen to see how Portland copes without its star players and how Golden State utilizes its mostly healthy roster. The anticipation is high for this early preseason contest.