Warriors Face Pressure as Curry’s Return Uncertain

SAN FRANCISCO — The longer Stephen Curry remains off the court, the more urgency builds within the Warriors organization.

Before Friday’s matchup against the Wizards, Steve Kerr expressed concern about the dwindling time for Golden State’s top players to get in shape ahead of the play-in tournament.

“We need to give him a solid run to make this work. With fewer games left, it’s becoming critical,” the Warriors coach noted, admitting that this is a pressing topic among his coaching staff.

The Warriors are set to play Washington, and with only eight games remaining in the regular season, they have already locked in a spot in the play-in, where they’ll face the Trail Blazers.

“We’re not going to rush him back just for a play-in game,” Kerr stated. “He needs game experience.”

At 38 years old, Curry has been sidelined for 24 consecutive games due to runner’s knee. Kerr admitted that while the situation has been “frustrating,” he believes Curry is “in good shape right now” and feeling “encouraged.”

In a recent update before the game, the Warriors indicated that Curry is making “good progress” and is expected to participate in a 5-on-5 scrimmage soon.

“If he’s healthy, he’s going to play,” Kerr emphasized. “If there’s any risk, he won’t.”

Kerr mentioned that despite the uncertainty, Curry is still training with hopes of returning by the end of the season. Yet, with each passing day, that possibility seems to dwindle.

Injury Updates for the Warriors

Golden State has been struggling with injuries lately, and additional updates included news on three other sidelined players, including Curry’s brother, Seth.

Interestingly, the brothers have not played together this season due to various injuries. The younger Curry has recently returned to practice after missing eight games with a groin strain.

Al Horford has also been out for eight games due to a calf strain, but the team reported he has started “light on-court training.” The veteran will be re-evaluated within a week and will miss at least three more games.

With both Horford and Quinten Post unavailable, the Warriors have been lacking size. The 7-foot Post is still day-to-day with foot soreness, leaving the team without two significant players for three straight games.