Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry is set to miss Friday night's crucial game in Denver against the Nuggets due to a lingering illness. The acclaimed guard reportedly picked up the ailment following the team's recent road trip, which included stops in Milwaukee and Indianapolis. This matchup also marks the Warriors' opening game in the NBA Cup tournament, adding further significance to Curry's absence.

Curry began experiencing symptoms prior to the Warriors' home game against the Phoenix Suns on Tuesday night. Despite feeling unwell, he played through the symptoms, delivering a strong performance with 28 points in 34 minutes. However, postgame, he acknowledged his "gas tank was on empty" in the second half, visible through his coughing and sniffling during a brief news conference.

Following the Suns game, Golden State promptly ruled Curry out of their subsequent Wednesday night game in Sacramento, which resulted in a loss. His absence against the Nuggets will mark his second consecutive missed game against a conference opponent. Warriors coach Steve Kerr communicated with Curry, who confirmed that his symptoms have unfortunately been worsening. To facilitate his recovery, Curry is not expected to travel with the team to Denver. Instead, he will rest at home in anticipation of the team's Sunday night game against the Indiana Pacers, which will be played in San Francisco.

In other team news, key players Jimmy Butler and Draymond Green are anticipated to make the trip to Denver. Green is currently listed as probable, dealing with a rib contusion. Butler's status is questionable due to a lower back strain. Both players had missed the recent loss to the Sacramento Kings but, according to Coach Kerr, are "hopeful" to return to action against the Nuggets, providing a potential boost to the Warriors' lineup despite Curry's absence.