Warriors Forced to Use Injured Player in Loss to Spurs

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The Golden State Warriors were forced to use an injured player, Malevy Leons, for nearly 30 minutes in their loss to the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday night. Leons, who has been dealing with a wrist sprain, had to take free throws with his non-preferred left hand due to the Warriors' lack of available players. The Warriors were missing nine players, including all three of their primary center options, against French phenom Victor Wembanyama and the surging Spurs.

Why it matters

The Warriors' injury crisis has reached a critical point, forcing them to take extreme measures just to field a competitive team. This highlights the challenges they face in staying competitive as they battle for a playoff spot, and raises questions about the team's depth and ability to weather long-term injuries.

The details

Despite the depleted roster, the Warriors put up a respectable effort, winning the second half by seven points after trailing 70-49 at halftime. Rookie guard Will Richard and two-way players Nate Williams and LJ Cryer led the way for the Warriors, with Williams scoring a career-high 18 points in nearly 47 minutes. Draymond Green and Brandin Podziemski also contributed, but were limited in minutes as the team prepares for a back-to-back against the Cleveland Cavaliers.

• On April 2, 2026, the Warriors faced the Spurs at Chase Center.
• The Warriors are in the final six games of the regular season, currently sitting in the 10th seed.

What they’re saying

What’s next

Multiple Warriors players are expected to return for the team's next game against the Cleveland Cavaliers on Thursday. Superstar guard Stephen Curry is also targeting a comeback against the Houston Rockets on Sunday.