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The Warriors’ $89 Million Problem That Nobody Saw Coming Before Opening Night

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Golden State Warriors logo on gradient background — Created by the Sports On Tap desk | Source : Sports On Tap (team logos property of their respective owners)

The Golden State Warriors are facing a seriously uphill battle right from the jump for the 2026-27 season, with a ton of key players already banged up. ESPN’s Anthony Slater just dropped some intel on wings Jimmy Butler III and Moses Moody, both of whom got hit with serious knee injuries late last season. The word is both guys are expected to be “out until around January,” but team sources noted Moody’s rehab is “slightly further ahead” than Butler’s. Yeah, you read that right: January.

Knee Injuries and a “Private Health Issue” Gut Golden State

It’s not just Butler and Moody giving the team headaches. Veteran big man Kristaps Porzingis is also sidelined indefinitely with what’s being called “a private health issue.” Think about that for a second: that’s three of the team’s five highest-paid players, folks. We’re talking a combined $89 million in salary that’s just sitting on the bench to start the year. This is a massive hit to the roster and the wallet before they’ve even played a meaningful game. How are they supposed to compete when that much talent and money is just chilling?

Curry’s Scare and the Looming “Down Year”

And just when you thought it couldn’t get worse, there was an injury scare with star guard Stephen Curry himself. He tweaked his ankle during Sunday night’s open practice. Coach Steve Kerr says Curry’s “fine,” which is a relief, but man, it just highlights how fragile things are right now. If these key players can’t stay on the court, Golden State could really be looking at a “down year.” That’s the real talk. This team needs its stars, and right now, too many of them are missing in action.

The Warriors are set to open their season Wednesday night against the Los Angeles Lakers. It’s going to be a tough start for sure, with so many key pieces missing. Every game is going to be a grind while they wait for these guys to get back on the floor.

This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.

Originally reported by Bleacher Report.

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