SAN FRANCISCO — In a major boost for the Golden State Warriors, superstar guard Stephen Curry participated in his first full-squad practice on Tuesday, engaging in 5-on-5 scrimmaging as he nears a return from a two-month injury layoff.
The 38-year-old two-time MVP has been sidelined since January 30 with patellofemoral pain syndrome in his right knee. While the scrimmage was described as a “half-speed” light session, coach Steve Kerr expressed optimism that Curry could suit up for the Warriors before the conclusion of the regular season.
The Warriors have struggled significantly in Curry’s absence, posting a 9-16 record during this current stretch and a total of 13-23 without him this season. With five games remaining in the regular season, Golden State is currently locked into the play-in tournament bracket.
“It’s a good step for him,” Kerr said. “Everyone’s spirits are lifted when he’s playing. It’s just a progression from here.”
While the return to scrimmaging is a milestone, the team is taking a cautious approach:
- Wednesday vs. San Antonio: Out.
- Thursday vs. Cleveland: Highly unlikely to return for the back-to-back.
- Remaining Games: The medical staff will monitor how his knee responds to the increased intensity before clearing him for game action.
Curry, who is averaging 27.2 points per game this season, noted in a video call that he is “headed in the right direction.” However, the team has already ruled out playing him on consecutive nights once he returns.
Curry’s potential return comes at a critical time as the Warriors deal with other roster setbacks, including the loss of Jimmy Butler to a season-ending ACL injury in February. Forward Gui Santos noted the immediate shift in team morale, stating, “We have a lot more confidence when we have a guy like Steph out on the court.”
If Curry can return for the final three or four games of the season, it would provide him with much-needed rhythm ahead of the high-stakes play-in tournament, where the Warriors will fight to secure a formal playoff spot.