The Golden State Warriors are once again forced into “survival mode” upfront, leaning heavily on small-ball lineups for Tuesday night’s (February 24, 2026) clash with the New Orleans Pelicans. With veteran bigs Al Horford and Kristaps Porziņģis both sidelined, depth is stretched thin on this two-game road back-to-back.
Depleted Frontcourt Forces Small-Ball Return
After a gritty 128-117 upset over Denver without Curry, Porziņģis, or Green, Warriors (30-27, 8th in West) face mounting injuries. Horford ruled out (left toe injury management) after his career-best Warrior night: 22 points, 6 threes, 7 assists—historic as oldest center to hit 5+ threes in first half. Porziņģis (illness) didn’t travel, per Anthony Slater—out for at least Pelicans and Grizzlies games, signaling extended absence for the deadline addition.
Curry remains sidelined (runner’s knee), Butler season-ending ACL, Seth Curry sciatic—Warriors missing key pieces yet again.
Green Probable, Melton Available—Small-Ball Risks Rise
Relief arrives: Draymond Green probable after back tightness late scratch vs. Nuggets; he traveled and will anchor defense/small-ball. De’Anthony Melton available (knee management)—adding bench intensity.
Without Horford/Porziņģis, Quinten Post steps up for rim protection/screening (despite offensive struggles vs. Denver: 0 points in 21 minutes). Small-ball formula: speed, spacing, versatility—Green at 5, Moody/Thompson/Podziemski spacing. It’s Warriors’ DNA, but exposes rebounding/interior weaknesses on road back-to-back.
Pelicans (16-42, 14th West) are beatable but tough at home—Warriors can’t overlook.
Resilience Test for Playoff Push
Warriors thrive in adversity—upset Nuggets short-handed proves depth. Green’s return boosts; small-ball must execute perfectly. This Pelicans game is winnable— a win stabilizes before Grizzlies.
In “survival mode,” Strength in Numbers shines. Warriors’ grit will define this stretch—fans, expect another collective fight!