These two teams enter this game with a 2-3 record over their last five games, although they’ve done it in different ways. The Warriors have alternated wins and losses and are coming off a 124-112 defeat to the Oklahoma City Thunder, a game in which they led in the fourth quarter before the Thunder flipped the script. As for the 76ers, they’ve won two of their last three and did a good job defeating the Washington Wizards on Tuesday by a comfortable 121-102 score. Here are three key storylines to know before tipoff at 8:30 ET on NBA TV.
1. Who can overcome the injury bug?
At first glance, this would be a star-studded matchup if both teams were healthy. Unfortunately, both squads are dealing with significant injury absences and there’s a chance that the majority of the top players on each roster could be sidelined on Thursday. The 76ers might be without Joel Embiid (knee) and Quentin Grimes (calf), although the availability of both players will be determined shortly before tipoff. As for the Warriors, Stephen Curry is out with a quadriceps injury and won’t be back until mid-December at the earliest, while Jimmy Butler should be considered questionable after exiting Tuesday’s loss to the Thunder with a knee injury. It will be interesting to see how the Warriors will adjust on offense without arguably their two best players.
2. Tyrese Maxey has another chance to shine.
Maxey, having an outstanding start to the 2025-26 season, has been the spark the 76ers have needed on a game-to-game basis. With Embiid and Paul George missing time due to injury and with VJ Edgecombe working his way back into form after a calf injury, Maxey has stepped up. He’s averaging 31.7 points, 4.6 rebounds, 6.8 assists and 2.0 steals per game in his last 10 games, reaching the 35-point plateau four times over that stretch. Considering the Warriors will be without Curry and possibly Butler, this is shaping up to be a very favorable matchup for Maxey to continue his hot streak of play.
3. Can the Warriors rely on their defense to win on the road?
Ever since the Warriors won their first title with Stephen Curry as their main figure, they’ve been known for their offensive prowess and their 3-point efficiency. However, the 2025-26 version of the Warriors has found comfort in their defensive identity, as they rank in the Top 10 in both defensive rating (7th, 112.2) and points allowed per game (9th, 114.0 ppg). They also rank fourth in steals per game (9.6), so Maxey will have to be aware of taking care of the ball as the 76ers’ main playmaker. Last but not least, Golden State ranks 11th in opponent field-goal percentage, allowing opposing teams to shoot only 41.1 percent from the floor. Given that the Warriors might be without their two best offensive players in Curry and Butler, their defensive ability will be needed now more than ever if they want to secure the win in this visit to the city of Brotherly Love.
