The highly anticipated NBA rivalry between the Sacramento Kings and the Golden State Warriors takes on a different complexion this Friday, January 9, 2026. The contest, scheduled at the Chase Center, will see both teams grappling with significant injury concerns, shifting the dynamics away from the usual fast-paced, star-powered spectacle.
Key Absences Reshape the Battle
Both franchises enter this Western Conference matchup severely short-handed. The Sacramento Kings' campaign continues to be a trial by fire, with injuries decimating their core roster. They will be without their anchor, Domantas Sabonis, who is recovering from a partial meniscus tear in his left knee. His absence creates a massive void in rebounding and interior scoring. Compounding their frontcourt woes, Keegan Murray remains sidelined with a left ankle sprain.
On the other side, the Golden State Warriors, while in better overall health, will miss the services of sharpshooter Seth Curry due to left sciatic nerve irritation. There is a silver lining for the home team, as defensive stalwart Gary Payton II is listed as probable despite a left ankle sprain. His potential availability could provide a crucial defensive spark.
How to Watch and Team Standings
The game is set for a 10:00 PM ET tip-off. Fans can catch the national broadcast on NBA TV. Local viewers in the Bay Area can tune in via NBC Sports California, while out-of-market audiences have options like NBA League Pass, Fubo, or YouTube TV. Radio coverage will be available on 95.7 The Game.
The teams come in with contrasting fortunes. The Kings are mired in a difficult season, carrying a 8-29 record and enduring a six-game losing streak. The Warriors, in contrast, hold a 20-18 standing and are looking to build momentum after a steadying 120-113 victory over the Milwaukee Bucks.
Players in the Spotlight and Game Expectations
With their big men out, the Kings' burden falls heavily on their guards and wings. Zach LaVine (20.2 PPG), DeMar DeRozan (18.4 PPG), and the versatile Russell Westbrook (14.0 PPG, 6.0 RPG, 6.8 APG) will be tasked with carrying the offensive load and keeping games competitive.
Golden State's attack continues to revolve around the legendary Stephen Curry, averaging 20.3 points and 3.3 three-pointers per game. He is ably supported by Jimmy Butler (16.5 PPG) and the defensive leadership of Draymond Green. Off the bench, Brandin Podziemski contributes a valuable 11.3 points.
Tonight's game will likely see Sacramento adopting smaller, perimeter-oriented lineups to compensate for their lack of size. The Warriors, playing at home, will aim to control the tempo, apply pressure on defense, and leverage their deeper rotation. While Golden State holds the clear advantage on paper, the injury situation on both sides means there is little room for error, setting the stage for a gritty, unpredictable battle.
