OAKLAND – With power forward Draymond Green ruled out for Saturday’s home game against the Minnesota Timberwolves, the Warriors immediately went into scramble mode.
They’re thankful, however, that Green may only miss one game.
Coach Steve Kerr said during his pregame news conference that Green and guard Ian Clark, both injured in a win over the Lakers on Friday, could return as soon as Monday night, when the Hawks visit Oracle Arena.
For Saturday, however, the Warriors will have to wing it. It’s not that don’t have a backup plan. They do. They in fact have several, which highlights the problem. No one can fill the massive void that forms with Green’s absence. He leads the Warriors in rebounding, assists, blocked shots and steals.
Kerr announced that second-year forward Kevon Looney will start in Green’s place and, therefore, would inherit the defensive assignment that would have gone to Green. The assignment happens to be Timberwolves center Karl-Anthony Towns, the reigning Rookie of the Year and one of the five most talented big men in the NBA.
Looney is making his first NBA start and this is the task he gets.
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Kerr was quick to point out that Looney was solid in his lone start during the preseason, against the Lakers on Oct. 15 in Las Vegas. He played 23 minutes, totaling 7 points, nine rebounds and four assists.
“He fit in really well with the starters,” Kerr said. “He played well defensively next to Zaza (Pachulia. He can play 4 (power forward).”
The Lakers, however, do not have a Karl-Anthony Towns on the roster. Though Looney likely won’t exceed 25 minutes and, therefore, will share the load with the likes of Kevin Durant, David West and JaVale McGee, this represents an opportunity for the 20-year-old UCLA product.
“What I like about him is he doesn’t try to do too much,” Kerr said. “He’s smart. He knows where to be, seems to be in the right place the right time, constantly.
“I’m actually really excited for tonight’s game. It’s a great challenge for us. It’s a little different look, but it’s a good chance for Loon to get some important minutes and for our team to perform without a couple key guys.”
