Stephen Curry’s return to the Golden State Warriors lineup appears to be delayed until after the All-Star break, according to head coach Steve Kerr. Curry has been sidelined with a knee injury and has missed three consecutive games so far.
Kerr told reporters that Curry is doubtful for the upcoming games scheduled before the break. Specifically, Curry is expected to miss the games against the Memphis Grizzlies and the San Antonio Spurs, meaning he could be out for at least another week and a half.
Current Status of Stephen Curry and Warriors’ Schedule
The Warriors face two games before the All-Star break: one on Monday against Memphis and another on Wednesday against San Antonio. Golden State’s first game after the break will be on February 19 against the Boston Celtics. Kerr emphasized a cautious approach, saying, “We’re just going to take it day-by-day.”
Additional Injury Challenges for Golden State
The Warriors continue to battle significant absences beyond Curry’s injury. Key player Jimmy Butler is sidelined for the season with a torn ACL. Recent trade acquisitions Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield have moved to the Atlanta Hawks, leaving gaps in the roster. Meanwhile, Kristaps Porzingis, who came to Golden State in exchange for those players, remains out with an Achilles injury sustained in early January.
Coach Kerr commented on Porzingis’ status, sharing that he remains sidelined through the All-Star break but has begun light workouts. “He got a workout in today with Rick, so we’ll see where it goes from here,” Kerr explained. “The plan is he’ll be in the Bay all All-Star break and play after.”
Impact on Warriors’ Playoff Position
Entering Saturday, the Warriors held the eighth seed in the Western Conference with a 28-24 record. The extended absences of star players pose a challenge to maintaining and improving their standings this season. The team’s ability to manage these setbacks will be critical in the coming weeks and the pivotal stretch after the All-Star break.
In light of these developments, Golden State faces a testing period as they navigate the remaining games without Curry and other significant contributors. Observers will be watching closely to see how the team adjusts and prepares for a potentially strengthened lineup once key players return.
Read more at: sports.yahoo.com
