Warriors Prepare for Challenge Against Magic Amid Injury Issues

ORLANDO, Fla. – The Golden State Warriors face off against the Orlando Magic Thursday at 7 p.m. at the Kia Center in a pivotal matchup for both teams. The Warriors, 31-27, are looking to secure their playoff position, while the Magic, sitting at 29-31, aim to bounce back from a tough recent defeat.

Since acquiring Jimmy Butler III, the Warriors have been on a roll, winning six of their last seven games, with five victories coming by significant margins. However, tonight’s game presents new challenges, especially as the team struggles with injuries. Jonathan Kuminga remains sidelined with a right ankle sprain, which has caused him to miss 25 games. Fortunately, he is nearing a return and could rejoin the lineup during this road trip.

In addition to Kuminga, Trayce Jackson-Davis is listed as questionable due to an illness, which has kept him out of the rotation for multiple games. Meanwhile, Yuri Collins will remain in the G League with the Santa Cruz Warriors. The Warriors will need their remaining key players, especially star Stephen Curry, who averages 23.3 points per game and leads the league in three-pointers made.

On the other side, the Magic are facing their own challenges with injuries. Jalen Suggs, who has missed 14 consecutive games with a left quad contusion, and Moritz Wagner, out for the season with a torn ACL, are among the players unavailable for the game. Cole Anthony is listed as questionable after suffering a hyperextended left knee in a recent game against the Cleveland Cavaliers, which resulted in a 40-point blowout defeat.

Magic head coach Jamahl Mosley provided updates during Wednesday’s practice, noting no changes regarding Suggs’ status. As for Anthony, Mosley expressed optimism that he wouldn’t miss much time. “We need all our players to be competitive,” Mosley said. “We are hopeful for good news before the game.”

Despite these setbacks, the Magic can rely on guard Franz Wagner, who is having a breakout season with an average of 24.9 points per game. With the playoffs looming, both teams are looking to gain momentum as they head deeper into the season.

The game will be broadcast on NBCS-BA and FDSFL and can also be streamed on Fubo. Fans are eagerly anticipating a hard-fought contest as the Warriors look to maintain their winning ways against the Magic’s resilient squad.