As the Golden State Warriors prepare for their upcoming game against the Washington Wizards, the focus centers on their star guard Stephen Curry, who is listed as questionable due to a left peroneal strain. Curry has been noticeably absent from the Warriors' lineup since October 27, when he sustained the injury during a game against the LA Clippers. Initially, Curry hurt his left ankle in the third quarter but continued to play, aggravating the injury in the fourth quarter of the same game.
Despite Curry's absence, the Warriors have managed an impressive performance on the court. The team has triumphed in all three games since Curry was sidelined, with a record of 5-1 during this period. This resurgence can largely be attributed to the efforts of players like Brandin Podziemski and Draymond Green, who have stepped up to fill the playmaking void left by Curry.
Another key contributor has been Buddy Hield, who has been averaging over 25 points per game since Curry's injury, providing the sort of offensive firepower that has kept the Warriors competitive. In addition, Jonathan Kuminga has emerged as another pivotal figure, averaging 19 points on an impressive 51% shooting during this stretch. These performances have enabled the Warriors to maintain the best net rating in the NBA, currently standing at a positive 17.6.
Looking ahead, the Warriors face a challenging run of games against strong opponents such as the Boston Celtics, Cleveland Cavaliers, and Oklahoma City Thunder. The possibility of Curry's return would undoubtedly be a boost for the team as they navigate this demanding schedule.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has been cautiously optimistic about Curry’s recovery, telling reporters, "Looks good," when describing Curry's performance during a recent optional team workout. However, Kerr also emphasized the ongoing assessment of Curry’s condition, adding, "But it's all about how the ankle feels after the workout tomorrow. So we'll see." This wait-and-see approach underscores the delicacy required in managing Curry's return, given his significant history of ankle injuries.
Curry's repeated struggles with ankle issues have been a longstanding concern for the Warriors, dating back to earlier in his career. Kerr acknowledged this, noting, "He's obviously sprained the ankle many times before, so he doesn't think it's too bad. But obviously, you know, it's a concern." These remarks highlight the potential risks involved in rushing Curry back into action and the importance of ensuring he is fully ready to resume playing at his usual high level.
As the Warriors continue to thrive even without their star, the larger narrative becomes one of resilience and adaptability. Players stepping up in Curry's absence have not only kept the team afloat but also showcased their depth and potential—a promising sign as the season progresses. Curry’s return, whenever it may come, will certainly reintroduce a dynamic element into the Warriors' roster, but for now, the focus remains on effectively managing his recovery and maximizing the current form of their roster.