The Golden State Warriors have been battling injuries all year long, and that probably won’t change anytime soon. But they’re at least getting healthier right now, and that should pay dividends. After a three-game absence, forward Draymond Green is listed as probable to return on Saturday night, when the Dubs host the Washington Wizards in the first Chase Center game in 11 days.
Green missed time due to both a back injury and an illness. Golden State went 1-2 in his absence, which featured an inexcusable loss to the Toronto Raptors, and a thrilling, impressive win over the Minnesota Timberwolves. On the year, the Dubs are 3-4 without Green, and haven’t looked nearly as good defensively when he’s unable to play.
The return of Green will make the Warriors heavy favorites against former teammate Jordan Poole and the Wizards. While Golden State’s season has unquestionably been a disappointment, they’re still miles ahead of where Washington is. The Wizards have far and away the worst record in the NBA at 6-33, and haven’t won a game since New Year’s Day. With Green and Steph Curry both available, anything other than a comfortable win would be a poor result for the Warriors.
While Green’s return gives Golden State’s eighth-ranked defense a big boost, they remain missing some key contributors. Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Kyle Anderson remain sidelined, though Gary Payton II did return to the fold on Wednesday.
Welcome back, Draymond!
