Upon Stephen Curry leaving Sunday's contest vs. the Los Angeles Clippers, worst-case scenarios came to mind for fans on social media. That list? You know it. Although Mike Dunleavy Jr. attempted to acquire "star" free agent Paul George, it didn't occur. Furthermore, the Warriors were also in a "race" for All-Star Utah Jazz forward Lauri Markkanen.
So, in the wake of those swings and misses, can the others shoulder the load without a second star in the Warriors' lineup?
Although it's second nature for fans to stress and speculate over every detail, and rightfully so in light of Curry's injury history pertaining to ankle ailments, Jeff Stotts of In Street Clothes stated it's not as severe as it appeared.
Oct 25, 2024; Salt Lake City, Utah, USA; Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry (30) drives against Utah Jazz center Walker Kessler (24) during the second quarter at Delta Center.
© Rob Gray-Imagn Images
From Stotts' social media: "Re: Steph: The peroneals (also known as the fibularis muscles) are primarily responsible for plantar flexion and eversion," Stotts wrote. "They are often stretched when the ankle is forced inward. Other players who suffered the injury include Donovan Mitchell and Nick Young. Low-grade strains have an average time lost of 1.8 games."
It seems Curry won't miss significant time, given the analysis of medical professionals.
The awareness of Curry's injury history likely saved the 36-year-old point from a more severe ailment. Stotts noted that the Under Armour athlete's tendency to wear ankle braces likely lessened the gravity of the injury. However, as we've seen with Curry in the past, he's liable to hurt the same ankle.
The Warriors host the New Orleans Pelicans on Tuesday and Wednesday, instantly putting the pressure on the Curry-less team to perform. De'Anthony Melton and Brandin Podziemski's roles will heighten without Curry in the lineup, at least temporarily. Furthermore, Buddy Hield's 3-point shooting must stay on track without the star who helps generate significantly open looks for his teammates.
Ultimately, until Curry's return timetable is updated on Friday, Warriors fans will speculate the deplorable possibilities for the 2024-25 season, lamenting "their" team not acquiring a younger star to support Curry.
