Kerr: Warriors will include Curry in play-in tournament if fit
DALLAS — Stephen Curry is set to participate in the play-in tournament if his injured right knee permits, as Golden State coach Steve Kerr dismissed the idea that the Warriors would rest their star player without a secured playoff position.
Kerr mentioned prior to Golden State’s matchup against Dallas on Monday night that Curry’s intended practice session the previous day was postponed by the medical team. A six-game road trip concludes against the Mavericks, and the Warriors will determine Curry’s status after returning home.
“It’s all just part of the rehab and all the different testing he undergoes,” Kerr stated. “Just pushed back a day or two.”
The Warriors currently sit in 10th place in the Western Conference, and if they end the season in that final position for the play-in tournament, they will need to secure two victories on the road to reach the playoffs.
Curry has not played since January 30 due to patella-femoral pain syndrome and bone bruising in his knee. Golden State entered Monday with a record of 23-16 with Curry and 10-22 without him, including a 1-8 stretch that has led to a 6-15 record since his most recent injury.
“We’re not chasing a play-in berth. We are squarely in the play-in no matter what we do,” Kerr remarked. “Bottom line, if Steph is healthy, he’s going to play because that’s what we’re here for. The opportunity to get into the playoffs is significant for us, significant for Steph.”
Simultaneously, Kerr indicated that if there is any risk of long-term damage to the knee, Curry will not take the court. The 38-year-old is the leading scorer for the Warriors, averaging 27.2 points per game.
Kerr sidestepped the inquiry regarding whether Curry was disheartened by the delay in his return to practice for at least two additional days.
Golden State had initially anticipated his return immediately following the All-Star break, and Curry did not participate in this year’s All-Star Game.
“It’s been a long haul,” the coach noted. “He’s eager to get out there for sure.”
