The Warriors will start the 2014-15 season by traveling to Sacramento to take on the Kings. The team believed there was a high probability that they would be without Brandon Rush and Shaun Livingston for their first game of the season. Rush had been battling back spasms and Livingston is still trying to come back from to toe surgery.
They both were participants at practice today, which is an encouraging sign for the Warriors. According to Rusty Simmons of the San Fransisco Chronicle, Rush has progressed well and is listed as “probable” for opening night:
Brandon Rush and Shaun Livingston both participated in practice, and Rush is now probable for opening night. Livingston is still doubtful.
— Rusty Simmons (@Rusty_SFChron) October 26, 2014
Back issues can be very troubling, just look at Steve Nash, who was fortunate to play for such a long time, but ultimately had to retire because the back issues were too much to overcome. Rush’s back problems are not as severe, but it’s something worth monitoring. For him to possibly play on Wednesday must mean his back is feeling much better.
Rush has experience with injuries and has been eager to make an impact in his second stint with the Warriors. His versatility makes him an important piece on the bench and will likely get his fair share of minutes. The only way he can contribute on this team is if he’s healthy and while having him on opening night would be great, the Warriors can still use him in 81 other games.