Moses Moody’s strong preseason run has hit an unfortunate snag just days before the Golden State Warriors’ season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers.
After emerging as a likely starter in the team’s first two preseason games, the fifth-year wing has been sidelined by a calf injury, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.
Moody will miss Sunday’s matchup against the Lakers and is set to undergo an MRI to determine the extent of the issue, though early indications suggest it may not be serious.
The 23-year-old had been one of Golden State’s brightest performers in the preseason, delivering a standout 19-point performance in the opener against the Lakers — shooting an efficient 7-of-9 from the field and 5-of-7 from beyond the arc in under 15 minutes. He followed that with another solid outing against the Portland Trail Blazers, contributing 10 points and four rebounds in the team’s second straight win.
Moody’s injury halts what had been impressive momentum, as he had recently secured a starting role under head coach Steve Kerr, even maintaining his spot after the addition of veteran big man Al Horford.
The Warriors will also be without Horford and star guard Stephen Curry for Sunday’s contest, with both being rested. Meanwhile, Miami Heat forward Jimmy Butler will also miss the game due to personal reasons.
Golden State’s announced starting lineup includes Draymond Green, Brandin Podziemski, Buddy Hield, Jonathan Kuminga, and Quinten Post.
While the absences may disrupt the team’s rhythm, they open the door for younger players to showcase their potential. Podziemski could reclaim the starting shooting guard role in Moody’s absence, while Kuminga is expected to see an expanded offensive role after spending much of the preseason facilitating for others.
The Warriors will wrap up their preseason schedule with games against Portland on Tuesday and the L.A. Clippers on Friday at Chase Center, hoping to regain full health ahead of opening night.
