The Golden State Warriors are about to shake things up in a big way, and it’s not just because they’re unveiling their 16th different starting lineup this season. With their star-studded 'Big Three' sidelined, the spotlight is shifting to some unexpected names—and this is where it gets intriguing. Gui Santos, a rising talent, is set to make just his fourth career start on Friday against the Oklahoma City Thunder. But here’s the twist: he’s not alone in this underdog story. Joining him are Brandin Podziemski, Moses Moody, Will Richard, and Quinten Post—a lineup that’s as fresh as it is untested.
But here’s where it gets controversial: The Warriors are down to just 10 available players due to a wave of injuries and rest days. Stephen Curry (ankle), Jimmy Butler (illness), Draymond Green (rest), De'Anthony Melton (knee), Seth Curry (sciatica), and a late addition, Jonathan Kuminga (lower back soreness), are all out. This leaves the team in a precarious position, relying heavily on players who haven’t yet had their moment in the spotlight. Is this a recipe for disaster, or could it be the start of something special?
Santos, in particular, has been turning heads. Fresh off a career-best performance against the Hornets—15 points on 5-of-6 shooting, 3-of-4 from three, five rebounds, two assists, one block, and zero turnovers—he’s proven he’s more than capable of stepping up. His plus-15 rating in that game marked his sixth consecutive game with a positive plus/minus, and over the last 12 games, he leads the team with a staggering plus-59. At 6'7", Santos embodies the modern stretch 4, holding his own defensively while stretching the floor offensively. Why hasn’t Steve Kerr given him more minutes earlier? It’s a question many fans are asking, and Friday’s game might just provide the answer.
Meanwhile, Brandin Podziemski—affectionately known as Podz—is quietly emerging as a scoring threat. Averaging 12.5 points per game, he’s the Warriors’ third-leading scorer, a fact that might surprise even die-hard fans. With Curry and Butler out, the team desperately needs someone to fill the scoring void, and Podz could be that guy. His 19-point outing against the Hornets on efficient 6-of-9 shooting is a promising sign, but the Warriors might need him to flirt with his 29-point career high to stand a chance against the Thunder. Can he rise to the occasion?
And this is the part most people miss: The Warriors are likely to lean heavily on a double-big lineup, featuring Al Horford at the 4 alongside either Quinten Post or Trayce Jackson-Davis. It’s not a bold strategic move but rather a necessity, given their limited roster. However, this lineup could be a game-changer against the Thunder, particularly in the rebounding battle. The Thunder’s dominance on the glass is no secret, and the Warriors can’t afford to let them run wild. Will this unconventional approach pay off, or will it backfire?
As the Warriors prepare for this high-stakes matchup, one thing is clear: this game is a test of depth, resilience, and the ability to adapt under pressure. With so many key players out, the team’s success hinges on the performance of its young, unproven talent. Will they crumble under the weight of expectations, or will they seize this opportunity to make a name for themselves? Only time will tell. But one thing’s for sure—this game is a must-watch for anyone who loves the drama and unpredictability of the NBA.
What do you think? Can Santos, Podz, and the rest of this makeshift lineup pull off the upset, or is this a game the Thunder will dominate? Let us know in the comments—we’re eager to hear your take!
