The Chase Center in San Francisco is set for a Western Conference showdown on Saturday, January 3, 2026, as the Golden State Warriors host the struggling Utah Jazz. The game, tipping off at 10:00 PM ET (5:00 PM PT), sees the Warriors enter as heavy favourites, while the Jazz grapple with a significant injury crisis that threatens to derail their efforts.
Injury Report Casts Shadow Over Key Players
The most pressing storyline ahead of this matchup is the health of both rosters. The Utah Jazz arrive severely short-handed. They will definitely be without Ace Bailey (left hip flexor strain), Walker Kessler (left shoulder), and Georges Niang (left foot stress reaction). Elijah Harkless and John Tonje are on G League duty.
More worryingly, their star player, Lauri Markkanen, is listed as questionable with a left knee contusion. Markkanen, averaging 27.7 points per game, is Utah's primary scoring option. His potential absence would be a massive blow. Keyonte George (illness) is also questionable, and Jusuf Nurkic is doubtful with a left foot sprain.
For the Warriors, playing on a back-to-back, the final injury report is pending. However, Stephen Curry is managing an ankle issue and Jimmy Butler is dealing with an illness. Both are considered hopeful to suit up, but their minutes and effectiveness could be monitored.
Team Form and Historical Context
The teams are at different stages in the season. The Golden State Warriors hold the 8th spot in the West with an 18-17 record. They have been strong at home, boasting a 10-5 record at Chase Center. They also have an impressive 8-2 record against teams with a winning percentage below .400.
In contrast, the Utah Jazz sit 12th in the conference with a 12-21 tally. Their season has been defined by defensive struggles, allowing a league-worrying 126.8 points per game with a -7.0 point differential. Their road record of 4-10 further complicates this trip to San Francisco.
This is the second meeting between the sides this season. Golden State dominated the first encounter on November 24, winning 134-117 behind a 31-point masterclass from Stephen Curry.
Betting Outlook and Key Matchups
Unsurprisingly, sportsbooks have installed the Warriors as substantial favourites. Golden State opened as an 11.5–12.5 point favourite, with the total points line set at 244.5. The Warriors have covered the spread in both games this season when favoured by 12.5 or more. Utah, however, has been a resilient underdog, covering the spread in five of their last eight games as double-digit 'dogs.
If Markkanen plays, his battle with Draymond Green will be pivotal for Utah's offensive flow. With Utah's backcourt depleted, Stephen Curry's scoring prowess could prove decisive. For the Warriors, Brandin Podziemski is expected to see increased responsibility, while Collin Sexton will need to carry a heavy offensive load for the Jazz.
Projections currently point towards a Golden State victory with a scoreline around 122-111. All eyes will be on Curry's scoring prop bets if he is cleared to play.
How to Watch: The game will be available on NBA League Pass. Local viewers can tune into NBC Sports Bay Area (Warriors) or ROOT Sports (Jazz). National broadcast coverage is possible depending on scheduling.
