The Golden State Warriors are entering the most important phase of their season, but they will have to do it without their North Star. Stephen Curry recently met with the media to provide the latest on the persistent right knee injury that has kept him sidelined since late January, and while the news isn't "bad," it's certainly not what fans wanted to hear.
"It's not going the way I wanted it to," Curry admitted via NBC Sports Authentic. The two-time MVP has been battling patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly known as "runner's knee." While a second MRI on Wednesday night confirmed that there was no structural damage, the lingering pain and swelling has refused to subside. Curry said that although he is "moving in the right direction," the priority is to stay healthy for the postseason rather than getting back in time for a February matchup.
Steph Curry shares the latest update on his knee injury and recovery:
"Feels good. I mean, it's not going the way I wanted it to, but I think we're on the right track to try to get back there as quickly as possible. The goal is to stay healthy come playoff time and... pic.twitter.com/LpXdWwryol
- Ali ✶ (@jinttherty) 21 February 2026
The timing couldn't be worse for Golden State. The team is already missing Jimmy Butler, who is out for the season after ACL surgery. This latest delay is also a big personal sting for Curry: By missing his 18th game of the season against the Boston Celtics on Thursday, he becomes officially ineligible for All-NBA and MVP honors under the league's 65-game rule.
On the court, the shorthanded Warriors have been bad but inconsistent. They recently pulled off a stunning 101-97 comeback win against the Phoenix Suns with the help of a career-high 20 points from Pat Spencer and 18 points from Gui Santos. However, a lack of late-game shot creation was evident as they relied on a 25-7 closing run to escape. D'Anthony Melton scored 17 points, but the offense clearly lacked the "gravity" provided by Curry.
The Warriors, currently 29-27 and in eighth place in the West, will reevaluate Curry in 10 days. For now, "Dub Nation" faithful will have to hold their breath and hope the supporting cast can keep the ship afloat until No. 30 is cleared for takeoff.
