The much-anticipated NBA showdown between the Oklahoma City Thunder and the Golden State Warriors on December 2 at the Chase Center is set to be a battle of survival rather than a full-strength spectacle. Both Western Conference contenders are grappling with a severe injury crisis that has depleted their rosters, turning this high-profile game into a test of depth and strategic grit.
Lengthy Injury Lists for Both Squads
The Oklahoma City Thunder, despite their league-best 20-1 record, are not immune to setbacks. Their elite defence will be severely tested with key players sidelined. Alex Caruso is out with right quad soreness, removing a vital perimeter defender. The team's primary stopper, Luguentz Dort, remains unavailable due to a right adductor strain. The frontcourt also takes a hit as Isaiah Hartenstein is out with a right soleus strain.
Long-term absentees for the Thunder include Thomas Sorber (right ACL surgery) and Nikola Topic (surgical rehab). Brooks Barnhizer is on a G League assignment, though Branden Carlson is cleared to play despite a nasal fracture.
Warriors' Offensive Engine Sputters Without Curry
The Golden State Warriors (11-10) face equally daunting challenges, headlined by the absence of their superstar. Stephen Curry will miss his second consecutive game due to a left quadriceps contusion, dealing a massive blow to the team's spacing and scoring. Veteran big man Al Horford is out with right sciatic nerve irritation.
The Warriors' injury report is filled with uncertainty. Jimmy Butler is questionable with a left gluteal contusion, though he remains optimistic. Trayce Jackson-Davis is listed as questionable with right knee patellar tendonitis. A silver lining for Golden State is that Draymond Green, managing a right midfoot sprain, is expected to suit up and play.
Impact on the Game and Key Matchups
With Curry sidelined, players like Brandin Podziemski will need to step up offensively for the Warriors. Conversely, the Thunder's MVP candidate, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (averaging 32.5 points per game), is poised to exploit Golden State's weakened perimeter defence. The return of a healthy Jalen Williams provides Oklahoma City with crucial stability and depth.
Oddsmakers have installed the Thunder as heavy 11.5 to 12-point favourites, with the total points projected around 222.5. This game will likely evolve into a gritty, guard-dominated contest where role players and bench contributions could decisively influence the final outcome.
