The Golden State Warriors have a commanding 3-1 lead over the Denver Nuggets in their first-round playoff matchup. Led by the elite-level play of Jordan Poole, the return of Stephen Curry and the defensive intensity of Draymond Green, the Warriors look like a formidable foe as they prepare to host the Nuggets with a chance to close out the series on Wednesday night.
However, the task was made a bit more difficult following the latest update on veteran forward Andre Iguodala, as reported by Anthony Slater of The Athletic:
Andre Iguodala is out for Game 5 tonight. Listed as a left cervical disc injury. Neck problem.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 27, 2022
Per Slater, Iguodala has been ruled out for Game 5 with a left cervical disc injury. The Warriors forward missed Game 2 with a sore neck, though he was able to return for the following two contests.
Article Continues BelowHowever, it appears that the issue is continuing to linger for Iguodala, who, even at the age of 38, remains a key part of Golden State's defense, as evidenced by his nearly 1.0 steals per game average and 106 defensive rating from the regular season.
While the loss of Iguodala certainly hurts, the Warriors have proven that they have the firepower to defeat the Nuggets without him. The question is just how much time the veteran will miss. Slater adds that Iguodala will be reevaluated in a week:
Andre Iguodala will be re-evaluated for his neck injury next Wednesday, per Warriors. So he will miss the end of this Nuggets series and, if they advance, at least the beginning portion of the second round.
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 27, 2022
Golden State should advance without Iguodala, but he will be missed at the start of the next round. The Warriors just have to hope he heals up quickly and is good to go as soon as possible.