De'Anthony Melton is keeping the faith alive for the Golden State Warriors' playoff aspirations, even as the team navigates a season riddled with injuries. The 2025-26 campaign has been a tough one, with the Warriors determined to give Stephen Curry and their veteran core one more shot at a championship run. However, significant setbacks like Jimmy Butler III's ACL tear and Moses Moody's recent patellar tendon injury have complicated their journey.
The Warriors find themselves in a challenging position, battling for a spot in the play-in tournament and eyeing the seventh or eighth seed. Yet, Melton remains optimistic, emphasizing the importance of having Curry and Al Horford healthy and productive. Their presence, he believes, keeps the Warriors competitive.
“We can compete with any team… We just beat Houston, had good battles with San Antonio earlier this year. We lost a lot of our guys and took OKC to the wire,” Melton shared with 95.7 The Game.
Stephen Curry's impact is undeniable; his presence on the court elevates the Warriors' chances as playoff contenders. However, his ongoing recovery from a knee injury remains a concern, as the team needs him at full strength.
Melton himself has been a key contributor, injecting energy into the Warriors' lineup. Over 42 games this season, he’s averaging 13 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game. His shooting stats include 41.5% from the field, 28.8% from three-point range, and an impressive 82.7% from the free-throw line.
Currently, the Warriors hold a 35-38 record, sitting 10th in the Western Conference standings. They’re ahead of the New Orleans Pelicans and Memphis Grizzlies but trailing behind the Portland Trail Blazers and Los Angeles Clippers.
With back-to-back victories under their belt, the Warriors are gearing up for their next challenge at home. They’ll face the Washington Wizards, with tip-off scheduled for March 27 at 10 p.m. ET.