No factor has been more critical in the Warriors dropping three straight games to the Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference semifinals series than the absence of star guard Stephen Curry, who injured his hamstring in Game 1 and has not played since.
Heading into Wednesday's Game 5 in Minnesota, the Warriors will have their entire season on the line. Curry is expected to be re-evaluated before the game, but he is not expected to play, even if the injury has improved.
Despite his absence--and it's a big absence considering he has averaged 24.5 points per game this year to lead the Warriors--Curry is still pitching in as much as he can to bolster the Golden State run.
Apr 1, 2025; Memphis, Tennessee, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts during the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum. Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) reacts during the third quarter against the Memphis Grizzlies at FedExForum.
Mandatory Credit: Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
Teammate Kevon Looney, who has played with Curry for 10 years, said that though the Warriors could certainly use his scoring, the team is getting something from him, anyway.
"Steph is the same as always. He's pretty upbeat," Looney said, when asked about Curry's contribution. "You can tell it's killing him not to be on the floor. But he's trying to keep a positive spirit. We need his leadership and energy. Even though he's not playing, he still gives that confidence and that wealth of knowledge that he has on the sideline. And everybody kind of looks to him still for guidance and for his wisdom.
"He's been trying to stay positive, but we know he's extremely frustrated not being out there. But when he's on the court, he's trying to coach us up."
Curry will need to summon the best coaching he has to offer on Wednesday, with tip-off coming at 9 p.m. ET from the Target Center.