Load mgmt post-return — Kerr 'shorter bursts'/26min cap thru week/no B2Bs/day-to-day/'new normal' knee/'longer than thought'/Seth support/offseason reset/Moody toll; ramp to 31-32min
Key Questions
What type of knee injury did Stephen Curry suffer?
Stephen Curry dealt with patellofemoral pain, also known as runner's knee, involving swelling and rehab with PRP injections. There was no structural damage. He described it as a 'long process' longer than anticipated, leading to a 'new normal' for his knee.
How long was Stephen Curry sidelined by his knee injury?
Curry missed over two months of action, returning on the 65th day since his last game on January 30. The rehab process took longer than he thought.
What was Stephen Curry's performance in his return game against Houston?
In his first game back, Curry scored 29 points on 11-for-21 shooting in 26 minutes. He looked like himself, with Steve Kerr noting the Warriors are 'back in the fight'.
What is the load management plan for Stephen Curry post-return?
Steve Kerr plans to use Curry in 'shorter bursts' with a conservative ramp-up, starting at 25-26 minutes and building to 31-32 minutes by week's end. There are no back-to-backs initially, with day-to-day evaluations.
Is Stephen Curry probable for the game against the Kings?
Yes, Curry is probable against the Kings with a 25-minute cap. Kerr mentioned starting him with Celebrini and using quarter-end stretches.
Will Stephen Curry play back-to-back games right away?
No back-to-backs are planned immediately, as the focus is on a cautious ramp-up to protect his knee for the postseason. B2B status remains TBD based on evaluations.
What did Steve Kerr say about Curry's return and the team's mindset?
Kerr emphasized getting Curry to peak form, using shorter bursts, and avoiding shutdowns, stating they 'owe it to fans' to 'go for it'. Health remains priority number one amid the team's injury challenges.
How has Curry's injury affected the Warriors' season?
The Warriors endured a 9-18 skid during Curry's absence, heightening stakes with an anti-surrender approach. His return brings joy, energy, and hope, positioning them to fight for play-in games with zero postseason risk.
'New normal' knee/PRP/swelling/runner's knee/no structural/'long process'; post-HOU Kerr/Celebrini plan: 26min cap Sunday/Tuesday/restrictions thru week/probable Kings/ramp to 31-32min norm/B2B TBD/starter + stretches/no B2Bs/conservative/'owe fans'/'go for it'/shutdown avoided/'back in fight'. 9-18 skid stakes/anti-surrender; health #1/postseason zero-risk.