Fresh off a commanding season-opening win over the Lakers, the Golden State Warriors’ depth is about to get even scarier. While the spotlight shone on Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Jonathan Kuminga, a key rotation piece is poised to make his long-awaited return. According to ESPN’s Anthony Slater, the team hopes Moses Moody will make his season debut on Friday against the Portland Trail Blazers, adding another layer of two-way talent to a roster that’s already flashing its potential.
Sep 29, 2025; San Francisco, CA, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Moses Moody (4) dribbles the ball during Media Day at the Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images
The Return: From Thumb Surgery to the Court
Moses Moody has been sidelined since undergoing surgery to repair a torn UCL in his thumb during the preseason, causing him to miss the first two games. His targeted return on the second night of a back-to-back provides a timely boost for a team navigating a grueling opening week.
The Value: More Than Just a Shooter
While the Warriors’ starting lineup is crowded with talent, Moody’s role is undeniable. His value to the team is multi-faceted:
Elite 3-and-D Potential: Moody isn’t just a shooter; he’s a “point of attack defender” who can hound opposing guards, a skill showcased by Kuminga in the opener but vital to a full 48-minute effort.
Proven Scoring Punch: In his limited preseason action, Moody was on fire, dropping 19 points (5-of-7 from three) in the opener and following it up with another 10-point performance.
Lineup Flexibility: His ability to space the floor and hold his own on defense gives Coach Steve Kerr the freedom to mix and match lineups without sacrificing skill on either end of the court.
The Lineup Puzzle: Starter or Sixth Man?
A fascinating question remains: will Moody start? He was a fixture in the starting lineup to close last season, starting the final 28 games. However, with Jonathan Kuminga’s explosive start and Brandin Podziemski’s established role, Moody may initially return to a bench role.
Regardless, his “key contributor” status is not in doubt. The contract extension he signed this offseason and his development last year prove the Warriors see him as a core piece, whether he’s the first name on the sheet or the first one off the bench.
The return of Moses Moody is like a mid-season acquisition for the Golden State Warriors. He provides them with a reliable, two-way wing who can defend multiple positions and knock down critical shots. In a Western Conference where depth and versatility are paramount, getting a player of Moody’s caliber back into the fold is a significant win. As the Warriors continue their tough opening stretch, Moody’s reintegration will be a key storyline to watch, offering Kerr more weapons and combinations to deploy in their quest to return to the NBA’s elite.