The Golden State Warriors will be without forward Draymond Green for at least a week due to a strained left calf. An MRI confirmed the injury is minor, and Green will be re-evaluated next week after sustaining the injury during the first quarter of a recent victory over the Washington Wizards. In his absence, Gary Payton II has stepped into the starting lineup for a matchup against the Boston Celtics.
Green, who is pivotal to the Warriors' defensive and offensive schemes, is averaging 8.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.4 assists this season. Coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the team's adjustment without Green, highlighting the unique synergy between him and superstar Stephen Curry. The Warriors are also dealing with injuries to other key players, including Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Kyle Anderson, further complicating their lineup options.