The Golden State Warriors remain without Stephen Curry as he continues to recover from a runner’s knee injury that has kept him sidelined for 10 consecutive games. On Saturday night, the Warriors suffered a 129–101 defeat at home against the Los Angeles Lakers at Chase Center, highlighting the team’s challenges without their star player. Curry confirmed in a live interview during the fourth quarter with ESPN’s Malika Andrews that his return will take additional time, with a cautious approach guiding the team’s decisions to protect the two-time NBA MVP’s long-term health.
It’s going to be a little longer,
Curry told Malika Andrews.
But like I said, right now with this one, it’s just about each day. Can you stack good days, and I’ve done that. So hopefully they can unleash me on the court soon and get back out there sooner than later.
Impact of Curry’s Absence on Warriors’ Performance
Saturday’s one-sided loss reinforced how vital Curry is to the Warriors’ offensive effectiveness. Gold State has recorded a 4-6 record during his current absence due to patellofemoral pain syndrome, a condition commonly called runner’s knee, and an overall 8-12 record in games without him this season. Without Curry, the team struggled to keep pace with the Lakers, falling behind early and unable to mount a comeback as the visitors pulled away in the second half. The loss was compounded by the absence of center Kristaps Porziņģis, who missed the game because of illness, further limiting the rotation for the Warriors.
Upcoming Medical Reassessment and Unclear Timeline
The Warriors announced on February 19 that Curry would be out for at least 10 additional days after missing five games initially. This evaluation period ends Sunday, when the team plans a formal reassessment of his condition. However, Curry’s recent remarks suggest that his return is not near. He expressed cautious optimism about his progress since All-Star Week but emphasized the unpredictable nature of the injury’s healing process.
This is a weird one. It’s kind of unpredictable how it’ll heal, but every day since All-Star Week has been progress. That’s all I can ask for, and hopefully I’m back out soon.
Earlier MRI scans revealed no structural damage to Curry’s knee, but both the player and the Warriors are avoiding any rush to return that might aggravate the problem, as runner’s knee can worsen if not properly managed.
Training Focus and Careful Approach to Return
Rather than resuming on-court activities, Curry is concentrating on conditioning and strengthening supporting muscles to prepare for his eventual comeback. He described his rehabilitation as a buildup to a sprint once he is cleared to return, highlighting the importance of patience and pain management.
I haven’t gotten on the court yet, but just trying to stay in shape, strengthen everything else around my body,
Curry explained.
Knowing that at this stage, once you get back, it’s kind of a full sprint to the playoffs.
Once I get back on the court, it is a little bit of a pain tolerance thing, but it’s just something that you don’t want to have lingering because it can get worse.
The injury first took Curry out of action on January 26. After briefly attempting a return, swelling and discomfort forced him back to the sidelines, prompting the Warriors to opt for an extended rest period.
Next Steps for the Warriors and Importance of Patience
The Warriors face a critical juncture as Curry’s re-evaluation approaches, potentially offering more clarity on his playing status. Despite still being in contention for the Western Conference playoffs, the team understands that each game without Curry heightens the pressure, making it clear that his health remains their top priority. The organization’s conservative stance reflects the long-term stakes involved with allowing Curry to fully recover.
Curry’s current mindset is centered on a hopeful and careful return.
Hopefully,
he said,
I’m back out there sooner than later.
Stephen Curry injury update: pic.twitter.com/VPQeM7pPlZ
— Warriors PR (@WarriorsPR) February 20, 2026
