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USA Today via Reuters

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USA Today via Reuters

It’s Win or Go Home for the Golden State Warriors and the Sacramento Kings tonight. De’Aaron Fox and Co. will be seeking revenge for their brutal elimination at the hands of the Warriors in last year’s playoffs. So, Golden State will need all hands on deck to enter enemy territory and come out with a win. With their season on the line, the Warriors’ big guns, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, are no longer on the injury report.

Terrell Owens holding Dude Wipes XL

According to the Warriors’ latest injury report, Steph and Draymond will suit up for tonight’s play-in clash against the Kings. Both superstars missed Sunday’s season finale against Utah due to lingering injuries. However, the 3-day rest and the importance of tonight’s game have brought Steph and Draymond back into the lineup. Golden State will have almost their entire squad available for the elimination game. The only player missing the crucial game is Gary Payton II. He is dealing with a left calf strain and will miss his 4th straight game tonight.

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On the Kings’ side, probable Sixth man of the year, Malik Monk will remain out of action, still recovering from his sprained right MCL. Kevin Huerter will also miss tonight’s game following his surgery to repair the torn left labrum. Monk’s absence could hurt the Kings in the crucial encounter. He has had a massive impact on Sacramento’s successful season coming off the bench, averaging 15.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 2.9 rebounds. The Warriors will have a distinct advantage against the Kings because of their bench depth.

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Can the Warriors keep their season alive?

The availability of Stephen Curry and Draymond Green provides a big boost for the Warriors ahead of the road clash. Steph has a history of showing out against the Kings. Who can forget his historic 50-point performance in Game 7 to eliminate De’Aaron Fox and Co. from the playoffs in 2023? Curry averaged a whopping 33.7 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists in that thrilling series. The Baby-Faced Assassin continued his wrath against Sacramento this season as well. He averaged 31 points, 6.3 rebounds, and 3.8 assists against them in this year’s 4-game season series. When the lights are bright, the Warriors can rely on Steph to thrive under pressure and save them.

Draymond has also impacted winning for the Warriors this season. He has been the Warriors’ defensive anchor all year and helped them reach the play-in tournament despite their horrific start to the season. The last two times Sacramento faced Golden State, the games went down to the wire and were decided by only a 1-point difference. So, the NBA World can expect a thriller in Sacramento between the two elite teams. Tonight’s winner will take one step toward a playoff spot and face the loser of Lakers vs. Pelicans to clinch the 8th seed. Who do you think will come out on top tonight?

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Written by

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Rohan Bhaunt

3,045 Articles

Rohan Singh Bhaunt brings over a decade of basketball experience to his role as Senior NBA Writer at EssentiallySports. A former point guard and video educator with a 62K-strong YouTube following, Rohan channels his high basketball IQ into detailed play-by-play analysis. His background helps demystify complex strategies, blending a player’s lens with sharp editorial clarity. He continues to foster a community of active players through practical breakdowns and easy-to-adopt playing tips.

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Saumya Khanduja

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