Golden State Warriors vs Portland Trail Blazers

On Friday, October 24, 2025, the Golden State Warriors will face the Portland Trail Blazers at the Moda Center in Portland, Oregon. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Pacific Time. This matchup marks the third game of the regular season for both teams, with Golden State looking to maintain its perfect start while Portland seeks its first win of the season. The game carries extra significance as both teams aim to test rotations and establish early-season rhythm in the Western Conference.

The Warriors arrive with a fully healthy roster, giving them the advantage of depth and continuity. The Trail Blazers, however, face multiple absences. Robert Williams III is sidelined with a knee injury, Scoot Henderson is out due to a foot problem, and Damian Lillard is unavailable for personal reasons. These injuries leave Portland with a thin rotation, forcing remaining starters and bench players to assume expanded roles both offensively and defensively.

With key players unavailable, Portland Trail Blazers interim head coach Tiago Splitter is expected to adjust tactics significantly. He may rely on smaller lineups, prioritize ball movement, and emphasize transition opportunities to compensate for the absence of Williams’ rim protection and Lillard’s scoring. Golden State coach Steve Kerr, by contrast, is likely to stick with his regular rotations and offensive schemes, focusing on spacing, perimeter shooting, and defensive pressure to exploit Portland’s depleted roster.

Press coverage highlights Golden State’s advantage in depth, health, and established team chemistry. Analysts point out that Portland’s injuries create mismatches in the frontcourt and reduce their scoring options, making it likely that Golden State will dictate pace and control the boards. Commentary also notes that while the Trail Blazers have talented young players, the team’s cohesion and leadership gaps could be exposed against a well-rounded Warriors squad.

Studio analysts are focused on how Portland will adapt to missing multiple key players and whether the remaining roster can sustain competitive intensity. Discussion also revolves around Golden State’s ability to exploit Portland’s defensive vulnerabilities, maintain offensive efficiency, and continue building momentum after a strong start to the season. Analysts agree that the Warriors’ depth and experience give them a clear edge, but execution from Portland’s remaining rotation could determine if the game remains competitive.