Warriors Face Injury Struggles Ahead of Jazz Game

SAN FRANCISCO — The Golden State Warriors will be without key players Jonathan Kuminga and Al Horford as they host the Utah Jazz on Monday night. Kuminga’s absence marks six consecutive games as he deals with bilateral knee tendonitis. Coach Steve Kerr expressed uncertainty about when the 23-year-old forward might return to play.

Kuminga suffered his injury during a game against the San Antonio Spurs on November 12, where he played only 12 minutes before sidelining himself. Despite the MRI revealing no structural damage, Kerr noted Kuminga has not improved and remains unable to participate effectively in practices.

<p“He’s got to tell you where he is,” Kerr said after Sunday’s practice. “We didn’t do scrimmages, but we did live-drill work, and he barely did any of that. He’s not moving well.”

The Warriors also announced that 39-year-old forward Al Horford will be out for at least a week due to a sciatic issue. Horford exited a recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers with a right hamstring injury and is scheduled for further evaluation.

In addition to Kuminga and Horford, Draymond Green is questionable for Monday’s contest due to a right foot sprain sustained during the same game against the Blazers. His status appears dire, with Kerr highlighting the need for the team to recalibrate as they struggle with injuries.

<p“We missed him,” Kerr stated, referring to his team’s recent performances. “When we played in Miami, missing all our guys, we looked tired. We need him.”

Despite the setbacks, the Warriors aim to recover from three straight losses and regain momentum against the Jazz. The team is currently sitting at 9-9 for the season.

The Jazz also face their own challenges with injuries, having several players, including Walker Kessler and Kevin Love, unavailable for the matchup. However, key players like Lauri Markkanen and Stephen Curry are set to play, promising an exciting battle on the court.