While fans will be deprived of a Stephen Curry vs. LeBron James showdown due to James’ injury, Golden State Warriors supporters still have reason for excitement ahead of their season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers. According to an update from Coach Steve Kerr, both key forwards Jimmy Butler and Jonathan Kuminga are expected to play and have been listed as probable.
Oct 8, 2025; San Francisco, California, USA; Golden State Warriors forward Jimmy Butler III (10) reacts towards forward Jonathan Kuminga (1) during the second quarter against the Portland Trail Blazers at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: John Hefti-Imagn Images
This development is crucial for the Warriors, who lack proven depth at the forward position. Beyond Draymond Green, Gui Santos is the only other pure forward on the roster. Therefore, the availability of Butler and Kuminga ensures Golden State can have at least one of their star forwards on the court for the majority of the game, providing significant flexibility and firepower for both units.
Neither Butler nor Kuminga is a consistent outside shooter, so they will look to leverage their ability to score at the rim and attack the paint. Facing the Lakers’ center Deandre Ayton, who can be caught in unfavorable defensive positions, promises to create opportunities for the Warriors in transition. The presence of floor-spacing bigs like Al Horford and Quentin Post will further open the lane for Butler and Kuminga to operate efficiently.
While the Lakers still boast formidable forwards like Rui Hachimura and Jarred Vanderbilt, Golden State holds a clear talent advantage at the position in LeBron James’ absence. The game is anticipated to be a guard-dominated affair featuring the duel between Stephen Curry and Luka Doncic, and the contributions of forwards Butler and Kuminga could very well be the decisive X-factor.