The Golden State Warriors have no intention of overthinking things: if Stephen Curry is able to play, he will take the floor in the NBA play-in. Head coach Steve Kerr made that clear, shutting down any doubts about how the team plans to handle its star down the stretch.
Kerr: “If he’s healthy, Curry plays”
Before the 137-131 overtime win over the Dallas MavericksKerr clarified the franchise’s stance:
If Steph is healthy, he’ll play. That’s why we’re here. The chance to make the playoffs is huge for us – and for him
Steve Kerr
A direct message that rules out any kind of “conservative management” if the Warriors are still fighting for a postseason spot.
Knee condition and recovery timeline
Curry’s return still depends on his physical condition. The two-time MVP has been out since January 30 due to patellofemoral pain syndrome and a bone contusion in his knee.
His return to practice, initially expected in recent days, has been pushed back:
It’s all part of the recovery process and testing. We just delayed it by a couple of days
Steve Kerr
The franchise will evaluate next steps after the road trip, maintaining a cautious approach.
Warriors struggling without Curry
The numbers clearly show the impact of the former MVP:
- 23-16 with Curry
- 11-22 without him
Since his absence, Golden State is 7-15with just two wins in the last ten games. Despite the win over Dallas, the team remains 10th in the Western Conferencea position that would require winning two road games to reach the playoffs.
NBA play-in: no overthinking, but risk awareness
Kerr was also clear on another key point:
We’re not chasing the play-in. We’re already there, regardless of anything else
Steve Kerr
A statement that highlights how the priority isn’t seeding, but being ready for the moment that matters most. At the same time, the staff won’t take unnecessary risks:
- If Curry is healthy → he plays
- If there’s risk of aggravation → he sits
The desire to return
Despite the extended absence – and missing the All-Star Game – Curry’s motivation has never wavered:
It’s been a long process. He’s eager to get back on the court
Steve Kerr
Averaging 27.2 points per gamehis return represents the Warriors’ best – and perhaps only – hope of shifting momentum at the most critical point of the season.
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