NBA Cup Opens With Lakers-Warriors Rematch as Doncic Returns

The Emirates NBA Cup tips off on Friday night with a heavyweight opening act, as the Los Angeles Lakers visit the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center in a West Group C clash. The Lakers arrive fresh from a 103-87 win over the Clippers, a victory achieved without Luka Doncic, who sat out with back tightness. The good news for Los Angeles is that Doncic is off the injury report and ready to go, giving the rematch its star attraction. Golden State's injury list tells a different story. Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody are both out with knee injuries, Gui Santos is doubtful with left knee tendinitis, and Kristaps Porzingis remains listed as "Not With Team" amid reported POTS-related symptoms. ESPN's Anthony Slater has reported that team sources are deeply pessimistic about Porzingis ever playing for Golden State again, a sobering backdrop to the Cup opener. The Warriors still have enough firepower to make this a contest, but they will need others to step up against a Lakers side that looked balanced and ruthless against the Clippers. Cup group games carry extra edge early in the season, and Friday's meeting is a first chance for both teams to lay down a marker.