Stephen Curry has officially been ruled out for Game 2 of the Western Conference Semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves due to a Grade 1 left hamstring strain, and the Golden State Warriors are preparing to be without their franchise star for at least one week. ESPN’s Shams Charania broke the news, noting that this is the first muscle strain of Curry’s career, which adds uncertainty to his rehab timeline.
Curry sustained the injury during the second quarter of Game 1 on Tuesday night. Although Golden State still came away with a win, Curry’s early exit, after logging just 13 minutes, cast a shadow over what was otherwise a strong team performance.
Head coach Steve Kerr said after the game that Curry was “crushed” upon learning he would not return, and that the team is taking a cautious, day-to-day approach to his recovery.
Given the timing and nature of the injury, Curry will miss Games 2, 3, and 4, and his availability beyond that remains uncertain. A Grade 1 strain typically requires 7 to 10 days of rest and rehab, but the Warriors are emphasizing flexibility depending on how Curry responds to treatment.
With this being his first muscle injury of this type, there’s no previous baseline to guide his comeback.
Before the injury, Curry had been averaging 22.6 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 5.1 assists while shooting 47.7% from the field and 40% from beyond the arc this postseason. He has been the Warriors’ offensive engine, and his absence immediately puts pressure on the rest of the team to step up.
That said, Game 1 proved that the Warriors might have enough depth and veteran presence to stay afloat without their MVP. Jimmy Butler and Buddy Hield answered the call, combining for 44 points, 19 rebounds, and 11 assists.
Draymond Green contributed an additional 18 points and played a crucial role as both a defender and facilitator. After the game, Green made headlines by saying, “Robin turned into Batman” in reference to Butler, and hilariously dubbed Hield “Alfred turned Robin” as a nod to their earlier banter this season.
While Curry’s absence will obviously be felt, the Warriors showed poise, resilience, and elite defense in Game 1. They held the Timberwolves to just 88 points and completely disrupted their offensive rhythm. With Curry sidelined, Golden State will lean even harder on its defense and hope Butler, Hield, and Green continue their inspired play.
The series now takes on a new complexion. Minnesota must capitalize on Curry’s absence to avoid falling into a deep hole, while the Warriors aim to steal another game on the road before heading back to Chase Center.
Long term, Golden State’s title hopes hinge on Curry’s health. Short term, Game 2 will be a critical test of their depth, identity, and adaptability without their iconic leader.
