Panic might be setting in for the Golden State Warriors, as star guard Stephen Curry is expected to sit out next week.
Curry is dealing with a Grade 1 hamstring strain that caused him to exit Game 1 early, and he was also absent during a recent win against the Timberwolves. There are concerns he could be sidelined for at least two more games.
The timeline for his recovery is unclear, with ESPN noting that this is the first time Curry has faced soft tissue damage in his career.
Draymond Green spoke about the situation, mentioning that Curry hurt his left hamstring with just eight minutes left in the game. “I didn’t really know what had happened at first,” Green stated. “I saw him grab his hamstring and move to the locker room. He said, ‘I’m coming back,’ and kept trying to push through.” Eventually, it was confirmed to be a hamstring injury, and while it was somewhat relieving to have clarity, Green acknowledged Curry’s significant role in building the team’s lead.
At the moment of Curry’s injury, Golden State was ahead 30-20, ultimately winning 99-88. It should be noted that Minnesota struggled from beyond the arc, going 29-5 in three-point attempts.
With their star absent, Golden State is looking to their recent acquisitions to help lead the offense, particularly guard Buddy Heild, who has been instrumental in their playoff success, including scoring 33 points against the Rockets in Game 7.
Following the game, Green urged his teammates to stay collected in Curry’s absence. He expressed confidence that Heild could step up, saying, “He’s led us to the finals before and knows how to carry the team.” Green emphasized trust in their coaching staff to adjust their strategy when Curry isn’t around, stating, “We believe in the talent we have to make plays.”
Golden State and Minnesota are set to clash again for Game 2 on Thursday night.
