GOLDEN State forward Andre Iguodala will miss Game 1 of the NBA Finals as he recovers from a bone bruise in his left knee that cost him the last four games of the Western Conference finals.

Iguodala’s absence is a huge blow to the Warriors’ defense as it works to stop LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers. Golden State coach Steve Kerr said several players will be called upon Thursday to handle the load that is James, making his eighth straight finals appearance.

“He was MVP of the series in 2015, largely because he took that role on of guarding LeBron. But also because of what he did offensively,” Kerr said. “He’s doing a little bit better today. Some encouraging signs, but we have ruled him out for Game 1. We’ve got lots of guys who can take on that job. It’s a group effort, anyway, guarding LeBron. So, KD (Kevin Durant), Draymond (Green), Klay (Thompson), Shaun Livingston, they’ll all see time on him.”

The Warriors said Iguodala, who was injured in Game 3 against the Rockets on May 20, was evaluated Tuesday and is making progress but still has the bruise and inflammation of the nerve surrounding his knee. Kerr has said Iguodala wouldn’t play until he can run without pain. He will be re-evaluated ahead of Sunday’s Game 2.

Iguodala said he doesn’t have any doubts he will be able to return during the finals, though his patience is being tested. He has sought multiple opinions for the injury. “Just trying to figure out how to move in general,” Iguodala said. “But making some progress. Slower than we expected but we’re just being realistic.”

Kevon Looney has been starting in Iguodala’s place.

Looney planned to talk to Iguodala about the task of guarding James.

“I’ll pick his brain about some things ... some tendencies of LeBron, the fact of the switches or small things like that to help me out,” Looney said. “He’s one of the best defenders in the league.” That’s why everybody on the Warriors realizes it will be a joint effort guarding James.

“What he brings to us on the defensive end will definitely be missed,” Green said. “But it just means other guys have got to step up.”(SD-Agencies)