San Francisco, California — The Golden State Warriors faced a significant setback in their playoff series against the Minnesota Timberwolves when star player Stephen Curry exited Game 1 in the second quarter due to a strained left hamstring. With Curry sidelined, his absence looms large as the team prepares for Game 2 on Thursday night.
Warriors head coach Steve Kerr announced that Curry will undergo an MRI on Wednesday to assess the extent of the injury, leaving the timeline for his recovery uncertain. “We’re preparing as if he won’t be available on Thursday,” Kerr stated, emphasizing the challenges posed by hamstring injuries. “It’s difficult to envision a scenario where he plays that quickly.”
Curry had made a strong start to the game, contributing 13 points in just 13 minutes, showcasing his typical offensive brilliance before the injury occurred. After successfully sinking a three-pointer, he appeared to strain his hamstring while defending on the other end of the court. Although he managed to add a push shot shortly afterward, he soon requested to leave the game and headed to the locker room visibly limping.
Kerr expressed concern for his star player, revealing the emotional toll the injury took on Curry. “I spoke to him at halftime. He’s obviously crushed,” Kerr remarked after the Warriors secured an 11-point victory. Despite the setback, the team’s resilience shone through as they rallied to secure the win, demonstrating their depth and competitive spirit. Kerr praised the group, noting their success in overcoming adversity, especially following a grueling seven-game series against the Houston Rockets, where Curry faced relentless physical play.
The timing of Curry’s injury is particularly concerning given the tight playoff schedule, with games scheduled with only one day of rest in between until at least Game 5. This compressed timeline means that even a brief absence could extend through multiple games, complicating the Warriors’ efforts to advance.
Currently, the Warriors hold a 1-0 lead in the series. However, they are still considered underdogs to win the series against the Timberwolves, a reflection of the uncertainty surrounding Curry’s health. As the team continues to navigate this challenging moment, they remain hopeful for favorable news regarding his condition.
With Curry’s status to be clarified soon, the Warriors aim to find balance in their game plan, relying on their strong defensive performance and teamwork to maintain momentum in this critical playoff series.