The Golden State Warriors will be without Stephen Curry for at least two more games as the star guard continues to battle a lingering right knee issue, extending his absence to a minimum of 25 consecutive contests. The news, confirmed by multiple reports on Friday, casts further doubt on Curry’s availability for the remainder of the regular season and raises questions about the Warriors’ playoff prospects.
Curry, 36, hasn’t played since January 30th, initially sidelined with what the team described as “runner’s knee.” While multiple MRIs have ruled out any structural damage, persistent pain and swelling have hampered his recovery. The Warriors have been cautious with his return, prioritizing long-term health over a potentially premature comeback. This latest setback underscores the delicate nature of his rehabilitation and the team’s commitment to avoiding further injury.
The situation is particularly concerning given the Warriors’ current standing in the Western Conference. As of March 27, 2026, Golden State holds the 10th seed with a record of 35-38, according to ESPN’s NBA standings. They’ve gone 8-15 in the 23 games Curry has missed, a clear indication of his impact on the team’s success. The Warriors are firmly in the play-in tournament picture, but their chances of making a deep playoff run are significantly diminished without their leading scorer and playmaker.
A Delicate Balance: Curry’s Recovery and the Warriors’ Timeline
Warriors coach Steve Kerr acknowledged the urgency of the situation Friday, stating that a decision on Curry’s return needs to be made soon. “We’re not bringing him back [only] for the play-in game,” Kerr said. “He’d need to play some games. We need to give him a runway if this is going to operate. And we are running out of games. That’s fair to say.” This suggests the team is weighing the benefits of having Curry available for the play-in tournament against the risk of re-injury if he returns before being fully recovered.
Curry has reportedly been progressing in his on-court work, but hasn’t yet been cleared for full-contact practice, specifically 5-on-5 scrimmages. Rick Celebrini, the Warriors’ lead medical decision-maker, is taking a cautious approach, prioritizing Curry’s long-term health. Sources within the team indicate Curry remains motivated to return this season, but understands the need to be fully healthy before stepping back onto the court.
Beyond Curry: A Wave of Injuries Impacts Golden State
Curry’s absence is compounded by other significant injuries within the Warriors roster. Both starting wings, Jimmy Butler III and Moses Moody, are sidelined for the remainder of the season with knee injuries. ESPN reported on March 24th that Moody suffered a torn patellar tendon, requiring season-ending surgery. Butler’s injury, also knee-related, has similarly ended his season. These losses have significantly depleted the Warriors’ offensive firepower and defensive versatility.
The cumulative effect of these injuries has led to internal discussions within the franchise regarding the viability of pushing for a playoff berth this season. While the team remains committed to competing, there’s a growing recognition that this season may be focused on evaluating younger players and preparing for the future.
The Impact on the Play-In Tournament
The Warriors’ current position in the Western Conference standings means they are likely headed for the play-in tournament. The play-in tournament, introduced by the NBA in 2021, involves teams seeded 7th through 10th competing for the final two playoff spots in each conference. The Warriors’ chances of securing a higher seed and avoiding the first play-in game are dwindling with each loss.
Without Curry, the Warriors face an uphill battle in the play-in tournament. Their offense has struggled to generate consistent scoring opportunities, and their defense has been vulnerable against opposing teams’ top players. The team will need to rely on contributions from other players, such as Klay Thompson and Draymond Green, to have any chance of success.
Upcoming Schedule and Key Dates
Curry will miss Friday night’s game against the Washington Wizards and Sunday’s road contest against the Denver Nuggets. The Warriors’ next game is Wednesday, April 3rd, at home against the San Antonio Spurs, a game that will be televised on ESPN. The regular season is scheduled to conclude on April 12th.
The NBA play-in tournament is slated to begin on April 16th. The Warriors’ participation is all but assured, but their seeding and potential opponents remain uncertain. The team will continue to monitor Curry’s progress and make a decision on his return based on his health and the team’s overall performance.
The Warriors face a challenging road ahead. Navigating the remainder of the regular season and the play-in tournament without a fully healthy Stephen Curry will require resilience, adaptability, and contributions from the entire roster. The team’s ability to overcome these obstacles will ultimately determine their fate this season.
Disclaimer: This article provides information about a medical condition and athletic performance. It is not intended to provide medical advice. Please consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The Warriors will provide updates on Curry’s condition as they develop into available. Fans can find the latest information on the team’s official website and social media channels. We encourage readers to share their thoughts on the Warriors’ situation in the comments below.
