The Golden State Warriors received encouraging news Monday regarding Stephen Curry's availability for their highly anticipated season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers. Curry is expected to play Wednesday after suffering a right ankle injury during the team's open practice Sunday at Chase Center. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed that the two-time NBA MVP participated fully in Monday's practice and is on track to be available for the regular-season opener.
"He practiced fully." The update comes after a concerning moment during Sunday's scrimmage, when Curry appeared to roll his right ankle while making a move with the basketball. The 38-year-old immediately stopped playing, slammed the ball against the court and limped toward the sideline before heading to the locker room. The incident immediately raised concerns about Curry's health, especially after injuries limited his availability last season.
Fortunately for Golden State, the injury involved his right ankle rather than the lingering knee issue that previously kept him sidelined. According to ESPN's Anthony Slater, Curry responded well overnight and was cleared by the team's medical staff to resume preparations for Wednesday's season opener against the Lakers. The positive update comes at an important time for Golden State, which is already dealing with several injuries as it prepares to begin the regular season.
Jimmy Butler III and Moses Moody remain sidelined with knee injuries, while Kristaps Porzingis is unavailable because of an ongoing health issue. Guard Brandin Podziemski also missed Monday's practice with lower back soreness, leaving his status for the opener uncertain. Despite those concerns, having Curry available provides Golden State with its most important offensive weapon.
The 12-time All-Star averaged 26.6 points, 4.7 assists and 3.6 rebounds last season while shooting at a high volume from beyond the arc. However, Curry appeared in just 43 games after missing an extended stretch because of a lingering right knee injury. The Warriors finished the season with a 37-45 record and missed the playoffs, increasing the importance of beginning the new campaign with their franchise star healthy.
Golden State has also taken a cautious approach to managing Curry's workload entering his 18th NBA season. While his playing time could be monitored throughout the year, Monday's development removes a major concern ahead of opening night. The Warriors will travel to Los Angeles for Wednesday's matchup against the Lakers, with Curry now expected to lead the offense.
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