Golden State Warriors star Steph Curry is set to miss both upcoming games against the New Orleans Pelicans, starting Tuesday night. This development comes after a lackluster offensive performance in Portland on October 27, which resulted in the Warriors’ first loss of the season.
Curry’s Injury Update
According to ESPN’s Shams Charania, Curry, 36, is dealing with a left peroneal strain he sustained during the Warriors’ 112-104 defeat to the Los Angeles Clippers over the weekend. He will be re-evaluated on Friday, leaving the Warriors to navigate the next few games without their leading scorer.
Curry has been instrumental in the Warriors’ performance thus far, averaging 24.7 points, 6.4 assists, and 4.7 rebounds over three games. His absence will significantly impact the team’s offensive dynamics as they look to maintain their momentum.
Warriors’ Struggles and Wiggins’ Status
In addition to Curry, Andrew Wiggins is also listed as day-to-day. Wiggins has transitioned to the backcourt this season to fill the void left by the offseason departure of Klay Thompson, who is now with the Mavericks. With both players potentially sidelined, the Warriors’ depth will be tested in the upcoming matches.
Pelicans’ Current Situation
The Pelicans enter this matchup with a 2-1 record, and they might catch a break with Curry’s absence. The team started strong with a 123-111 victory over the Chicago Bulls, even with star player Zion Williamson out due to illness. However, their fortunes changed when starting point guard Dejounte Murray suffered a fractured hand, sidelining him after a promising debut.
In their most recent game against the Portland Trail Blazers, the Pelicans struggled offensively in the first half but rallied for a 105-103 victory, thanks to a second-half surge from Brandon Ingram, Williamson, and bench player Jordan Hawkins.
Need for Improvement
Despite the win, the Pelicans have faced challenges, including a 125-103 loss in a rematch against the Blazers, where they were out-rebounded 51 to 39. Coach Willie Green emphasized the need for faster play from their small-man rotation, but the team struggled to find that rhythm. Without a starting point guard, the Pelicans will need to be more assertive on offense and improve their rebounding efforts.
Trey Murphy III is also working his way back from a hamstring strain and will miss Tuesday’s game. He is expected to be reevaluated in two weeks.
Tuesday’s matchup is the first of a back-to-back series against the Warriors and will be broadcasted nationally on TNT at 9 p.m. Both teams, currently sitting at 2-1, will be looking to solidify their standing early in the season. With Curry out, the Pelicans may have an opportunity to capitalize and secure another victory.
