The Golden State Warriors face a challenging matchup in their NBA Cup opener against the Denver Nuggets without their superstar, Steph Curry. According to ESPN's Anthony Slater, Curry will be sidelined due to an illness that worsened yesterday morning.
Curry had shown visible signs of struggling with a cold and cough following the Warriors' win over the Phoenix Suns last Tuesday. He was also ruled out in their recent loss to the Sacramento Kings. Jimmy Butler remains questionable due to a lower back strain after missing the game against the Kings, while Draymond Green is likely to play.
Curry’s absence is a significant setback. In their first matchup, Curry scored 42 points leading the Warriors to an overtime victory despite Aaron Gordon’s career-best 50 points with near-perfect shooting. Without Curry, Golden State faces an uphill battle against Nikola Jokić, Jamal Murray, Gordon, and the Nuggets' roster.
“Steph Curry will not be available against the Nuggets due to an illness that worsened yesterday morning.” — Anthony Slater, ESPN
The combination of missing key players and the demanding schedule highlights the tough road ahead for the Warriors in Denver.
Author’s summary: Steph Curry’s illness sidelines him for a crucial game versus the Nuggets, significantly increasing the Warriors’ challenge amid a grueling schedule and tough away conditions.