The Golden State Warriors are navigating a tricky situation with Stephen Curry's injury woes. Both the team and Curry are eager for his return, but his time on the sidelines has been extended due to patellofemoral pain syndrome and a bone bruise.
Even from the bench, Curry's reactions are telling. During Friday’s clash with the Minnesota Timberwolves at Chase Center, Curry could only watch as Anthony Edwards caught fire in the fourth quarter.
When Edwards sank a deep three-pointer, Curry's headshake said it all-a mix of disbelief and respect for a shot even he could admire.
Edwards' scoring spree, highlighted by nine consecutive points, began with free throws, followed by a deep triple, and capped with a tough mid-range jumper. This surge put the Timberwolves firmly in control, and the Warriors, missing their star point guard, struggled to contain the momentum, ultimately falling 127-117.
As the Warriors push towards the end of the season, they're faced with a pressing question: will Curry return to help them make a playoff run? With a 32-34 record, they sit ninth in the Western Conference, hovering around the Play-In Tournament zone. Their postseason hopes are closely tied to Curry's comeback.
Curry, who hasn't played since January 30 due to his knee injury, is being approached with caution by Golden State. NBA insider Anthony Slater noted on The Hoop Collective Podcast that the team might be eyeing next season as their main focus.
"Next season has become ‘the’ season in this final Steph era," Slater explained. The Warriors are wary of rushing him back and risking further injury.
As Curry celebrates his 38th birthday today, the Warriors are weighing their options. While his productivity remains high, his limited play this season leaves the franchise pondering the path forward.