The Warriors and Rockets are battling at Oracle tonight. Two of the best teams in the Western Conference are looking to add another valuable win to their resume. The Warriors are a league best 18-2, but the Rockets are right behind them at 16-4, so this is a big game for both teams.
The Houston Rockets will be without big man Dwight Howard tonight, a big advantage for the Warriors. However, the Warriors will also be without their defensive anchor. According to Rusty Simmons of the San Francisco Chronicle, the Warriors will be without Andrew Bogut, who is dealing with irritation in his right knee.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said Andrew Bogut (right knee) is NOT available for tonight’s game vs. Houston.
— Rusty Simmons (@Rusty_SFChron) December 11, 2014
Festus Ezeli will start for the Warriors tonight and although they will miss Bogut’s presence on both ends of the floor, they have enough depth to continue to win games. According to Rusty Simmons, Bogut will travel with the team and should play on their three game road trip
Festus Ezeli will start tonight, but Kerr expects Bogut to travel and be ready for games at DAL, NOP and MEM.
— Rusty Simmons (@Rusty_SFChron) December 11, 2014
The Warriors need Bogut in this upcoming road trip, but his health in the long run is much more important. He holds that defense together, but this year he has been instrumental in the offense, so he is much valuable to this team. Ultimately, they need him more for their post-season, so the Warriors should take their time with Bogut.