The Golden State Warriors were already monitoring Stephen Curry’s swollen thumb heading into their Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves. But in a dramatic turn, Game 1 of the series saw Curry go down with a left hamstring strain, forcing him out of the contest and raising fresh concerns about his health during this critical stretch.
Curry exited the game in the second quarter, limping toward the locker room before being officially ruled out. Prior to his injury, he had posted 13 points, one rebound, and one assist, shooting 5-of-9 from the field. The Warriors managed to grind out a 99-88 victory, but the loss of their leader looms large as the series progresses.
The official injury report, per ESPN’s Shams Charania, confirmed a left hamstring strain. Curry will undergo an MRI on Wednesday, with the team hoping for encouraging results. A question pops up as one that underscores if the team can withstand his absence, or will this injury derail their championship aspirations.
Shaquille O’Neal sounds off on Curry’s durability
During halftime, NBA on TNT analysts Shaquille O’Neal,Charles Barkley, and others weighed in on Curry’s health and long-term viability. O’Neal questioned whether Curry’s high-energy playstyle is sustainable given his age and physical demands.
“He moves a lot for a 37, 36-year-old. This could be crucial,” O’Neal said, per ClutchPoints. “If I’m Golden State, I definitely want to get this game for him. Rest him Game 2. Give him a couple more days of rest. Possibly bring him back for Game 3.”
With Game 2 looming, the Warriors must decide whether to rest Curry or push for an early return. The team has already relied heavily on its defensive strengths, especially with newly acquired Jimmy Butler, Buddy Hield, and Brandin Podziemski stepping up. However, losing Curry for an extended period would significantly shift the balance of the series against Minnesota. Curry is now in his 16th season, having led Golden State to four NBA titles. His 2024-25 season averages of 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.0 assists highlight his continued excellence, but injuries are becoming a growing concern.
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