Warriors’ Stephen Curry sidelined for an additional two games because of ongoing knee problem
The Golden State Warriors will be without star guard Stephen Curry for an additional two games due to his injured knee, extending his absence to a minimum of 25 consecutive games, according to league sources who spoke with ESPN.
Curry has progressed to more rigorous court activities in recent weeks; however, he has not received clearance for a 5-on-5 scrimmage in recent days as the team had previously anticipated.
Despite the setbacks, Curry remains hopeful about making a return late in the regular season, as team sources indicate, and will utilize the upcoming week to further enhance his court activities and seek approval to scrimmage from Rick Celebrini, the team’s head medical decision-maker, who has been cautious regarding Curry’s troublesome right knee.
“The bottom line is, if Steph is healthy he’s going to play because that’s what we’re here for,” Warriors coach Steve Kerr stated this week. “The opportunity to reach the playoffs is significant for us and for Steph. At 38, you can’t predict how many chances there will be. So you go for it. But if there’s any risk at all regarding how it might affect next year, then he won’t play. It’s actually quite straightforward.”
The Warriors have struggled in Curry’s absence, recording an 8-15 record and dropping to 35-38 overall, firmly placing them in the 10th seed in the Western Conference.
They have already lost both starting wings, Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody, to season-ending knee injuries, and there have been internal discussions within the organization about whether it is worthwhile to bring Curry back in what has seemed like a challenging season.
Nevertheless, Curry has remained determined to return to the court despite multiple setbacks since he first left the lineup on January 30 due to “runner’s knee.” Several MRIs have confirmed there is no structural damage, but pain and swelling have continued.
Curry will be absent for Friday night’s home game against the Wizards and Sunday’s away game in Denver. The Warriors will next play at home on Wednesday against the San Antonio Spurs, which will be broadcast on ESPN.
The regular season concludes on April 12. The Warriors are secured in the play-in bracket.
