Stephen Curry will play in the play-in tournament if his right knee allows, according to Golden State coach Steve Kerr.
Kerr dismissed any suggestion that the Warriors would rest their superstar without a guaranteed spot in the playoffs.
Curry’s Rehab and Delayed Practice
Curry’s planned participation in practice was postponed by the medical staff.
Golden State’s six-game road trip concludes against the Mavericks, after which a decision will be made regarding Curry’s next steps.
Kerr explained that the delayed practice is “all just part of the rehab and all the different testing he does,” and it was “just pushed back a day or two.”
Warriors’ Play-In Position
The Warriors currently hold 10th place in the Western Conference.
If they remain in that position, they would need to win two road games to reach the playoffs.
- Curry hasn’t played since Jan. 30.
- He is dealing with patellofemoral pain syndrome and bone bruising in the knee.
- Golden State are 23-16 with Curry.
- Golden State are 10-22 without him.
Golden State have gone 6-15 since Curry’s latest injury.
Kerr’s Stance on Curry’s Return
“We’re not chasing a play-in berth. We are squarely in the play-in no matter what we do,” Kerr stated.
Kerr emphasised, “Bottom line, if Steph is healthy, he’s going to play because that’s what we’re here for. The chance to get into the playoffs is a big deal for us, big deal for Steph.”
However, Kerr also clarified that Curry will not play if there’s any risk of long-term damage to his knee.
Curry leads the Warriors in scoring, averaging 27.2 points per game.
Curry’s Frustration
Kerr avoided answering whether Curry was disappointed that his return to practice was delayed.
Golden State initially hoped he would return right after the All-Star break, and Curry sat out the All-Star Game this year.
“It’s been a long haul,” Kerr said. “He’s dying to get out there for sure.”