For a team chasing rhythm in the second half of the season, the absence of Stephen Curry has become the defining storyline in Golden State.
While fans look ahead to a high-profile showdown against Boston, the Warriors continue to operate without their franchise cornerstone.
Curry has now missed six consecutive games as he works through patellofemoral pain syndrome, a condition often referred to as runner’s knee. What initially sounded manageable has taken on added complexity after the organization disclosed MRI findings that included bone bruising.
Although the scan showed no structural damage, the additional detail prompted concern from medical observers. Dr. Nirav Pandya, an orthopedic surgery professor at the UCSF School of Medicine, publicly weighed in on the development.
“The bone bruising in the recent press release from the Warriors indicates a greater degree of inflammation / irritation that would help to explain the duration of Stephen Curry’s symptoms a bit more,” Dr. Pandya wrote on X.
That inflammation, rather than any ligament tear or structural breakdown, appears to be the central obstacle. According to Dr. Pandya, recovery from this type of issue does not follow a predictable clock.
“In general, you’re trying to get rid of the pain and inflammation while optimizing the player’s ability to perform normally on the court,” Dr. Pandya said. “Each knee reacts differently based on what’s causing it and how much load is basically led to this inflammation occurring.”
A season shaped by setbacks
The latest knee complication is not an isolated incident. Curry has already missed 17 games this season due to issues involving his right quadriceps, ankle, and now his knee.
Golden State initially downplayed the severity. Head coach Steve Kerr described the injury as not “anything major” earlier in the process. But with Curry ruled out for at least 10 games and set for reevaluation in 10 days, the tone has shifted toward patience.
The absence has extended beyond regular-season contests. During All-Star weekend, Curry appeared in a media role rather than as an active participant. He joined NBC‘s pregame programming, interacted with analysts, and even knocked down a long-range shot for show, but he did not compete as he continues to follow a controlled recovery plan.
The Warriors are now relying on a combination of rotation adjustments and depth players to sustain performance while their star point guard heals. The team’s ability to maintain cohesion without Curry will likely influence playoff seeding and their championship aspirations.
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