With the regular season winding down and playoff positioning on the line, the Golden State Warriors are heading into Portland on Friday night with everything to play for—and absolutely no room for error.
Just two games remain in the regular season, and the Warriors are clinging to the sixth seed in the Western Conference, a spot they claimed after Memphis fell to Minnesota on Thursday. But the margin is razor-thin, and one misstep could land Golden State back in the dreaded Play-In zone. The stakes? Massive.
The Warriors have won six of their last ten, but momentum took a gut punch on Wednesday after a buzzer-beating dagger from former Warrior Harrison Barnes handed them a stunning loss to the San Antonio Spurs. Now, they’ll need to shake it off fast as they face a Trail Blazers team with little left to play for—but even less to lose.
The Warriors could be missing two key rotation pieces in Friday’s must-win battle. Defensive ace Gary Payton II is listed as questionable with a lingering knee issue that’s already sidelined him for two straight games. Center Quinten Post is also questionable with an illness and could miss his third consecutive game as well.
If both are ruled out, expect more minutes for Gui Santos, Trayce Jackson-Davis, and Kevon Looney—players who’ll be asked to step up when it matters most.
Meanwhile, the Trail Blazers are limping to the finish line—literally. They’re heading into the matchup severely shorthanded. Deni Avdija (thumb) is doubtful, and Shaedon Sharpe (knee soreness) is questionable. The team has already ruled out a long list of key players including Deandre Ayton, Jerami Grant, Anfernee Simons, Scoot Henderson, Bryce McGowens, and Robert Williams III.
While the Blazers have little to play for, the danger for Golden State is clear—this is the kind of game where underdogs can play spoiler, and a single lapse could cost the Warriors dearly in the standings.
Tip-off is set for 10:00 p.m. EST. Buckle up—it’s do-or-die time in the West.
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