Kristaps Porzingis stands at the center of the attention, listed as questionable with right ankle soreness. Porzingis was a key contributor in the win over the Clippers, finishing with 20 points, five rebounds, five assists, two blocks, and a steal in 28 minutes, making his availability for Friday even more critical.
If Porzingis cannot play, Golden State would lose one of its top frontcourt options against a Phoenix squad that features size and depth. Al Horford would likely see an expanded role, and Gary Payton II could be asked to log more minutes in smaller lineups. The Warriors also are without Quinten Post, who remains out with a right foot injury, further narrowing frontcourt options.
Jimmy Butler’s absence continues to shape the Warriors’ postseason push. The veteran forward is out for the season after tearing his ACL in January. Before the injury, Butler had been productive in his first full season with Golden State, averaging 20.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, 4.9 assists, and 1.5 steals over 38 games. With Butler sidelined, Curry remains the primary engine and Green’s playmaking and defense carry extra weight.
Phoenix enters with its own injury questions, as Mark Williams and Grayson Allen are listed as questionable. Yet the immediate focus for Golden State remains Porzingis’s ankle and whether he can suit up for one more high‑stakes game.
If Porzingis cannot go, the Warriors will again lean on experience, shot-making, and urgency in another elimination setting as they chase the final playoff spot and a first‑round matchup with Oklahoma City.
