The Golden State Warriors are set to host the New York Knicks as they’ve won six straight contests.

It’s no secret that the Warriors have been among the best teams in the NBA since acquiring Jimmy Butler at the trade deadline.

Stephen Curry has ascended to MVP-level play, while the rest of the squad has improved with the arrival of Butler.

However, Golden State needs to prove that it can hang with the NBA’s best squads to prove that it is a legitimate contender, and its upcoming stretch will allow it to do exactly that.

The Knicks, on the other hand, have a stigma around them that they aren’t true contenders. Both teams have something to prove heading into the contest.

Another storyline to follow is the return of Jonathan Kuminga and how close he can replicate his 18-point performance in his initial return.

Final injury report before Warriors-Knicks

The Warriors will be without Brandin Podziemski once again, as he continues to look to get healthy while dealing with a lower back issue.

The Knicks are without their superstar guard, with Jalen Brunson being sidelined with an ankle sprain. 

Those are the two most crucial injuries, though New York is also without Ariel Hukporti and Kevin McCullar Jr., with Pacome Dadiet and Delon Wright being named questionable.

Golden State is a 6.5-point favorite hours before tipoff, and they’re looking to continue to defend their home court.

Again, the Knicks could make a massive statement with a third-straight victory, continuing to find success with Brunson sidelined after a bit of recent slippage.