Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

Warriors Rest Curry, Butler and Horford for Tonight As Lakers Prepare for Preseason Clash Without LeBron James

Image Credit: David Gonzales-Imagn Images

The Golden State Warriors return to action tonight against the Los Angeles Lakers at Crypto.com Arena, but the preseason matchup will be missing several familiar faces. Stephen Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Al Horford are all sidelined,

Tip‑off is set for 9:30 p.m. ET, and while the result won’t count in the standings, the game offers an early look at how both franchises are preparing for the grind of the 2025-26 season.

Warriors Resting Stars

Golden State has chosen to keep Steph Curry, Jimmy Butler, and Al Horford out of the lineup, citing rest and minor health concerns. Curry is expected back next week, while Butler has been excused for personal reasons. Horford, entering his 19th season, is being managed carefully with an eye toward the regular season. Moses Moody is also unavailable as he undergoes testing for a calf injury.

That leaves Luka Doncic as the focal point for the matchup. The All-Star guard has already shown flashes of brilliance with his new leadership role during the preseason, and tonight provides another chance to build rhythm.

NBA GMs recently voted Steph Curry the best leader in the league 🐐 pic.twitter.com/yK9Qt1G3Qs
— TheWarriorsTalk (@TheWarriorsTalk) October 11, 2025

Meanwhile, the Warriors have won two of their last preseason contests, and head coach Steve Kerr has emphasized the importance of developing depth. Players like Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Trayce Jackson‑Davis are expected to see extended minutes, giving the coaching staff a clearer picture of the rotation heading into the regular season.

Lakers Adjusting Without LeBron

On the other side, the Lakers are also shorthanded. LeBron James remains out with sciatica and will miss opening night for the first time in his career. His absence has shifted attention to Luka Doncic and the supporting cast, including Austin Reaves and Rui Hachimura, who are tasked with keeping the team competitive until James returns.

The Lakers have dropped their last two preseason games, and head coach JJ Redick has stressed the need for sharper execution on both ends of the floor. Facing a Warriors team without its stars could provide Los Angeles with an opportunity to regain confidence before the regular season begins.

While the absences of Steph Curry, Butler, Al Horford, and LeBron James take away some star power, the matchup still carries weight. Doncic’s leadership role with the Lakers is growing, and his ability to elevate teammates will be tested. Also, the focus will be on finding offensive balance and defensive consistency without LeBron James.