Stephen Curry Suffers Injury and Must Rest for at Least a Week: What Will the Warriors Do to Maintain Their Advantage Against the Timberwolves?

In a crushing blow to the Golden State Warriors, Stephen Curry, their two-time NBA MVP, has been diagnosed with a Grade 1 left hamstring strain, ruling him out of action for at least one week, the team confirmed on Wednesday. This development comes during the heart of the NBA Playoffs, as the Warriors face the formidable Minnesota Timberwolves in the Western Conference Semifinals.

The injury occurred during Game 1 of the series on Tuesday night in Minneapolis, a contest the Warriors managed to win 99–88, but at the steep cost of losing their star guard. Curry underwent an MRI on Wednesday morning, and while the results ruled out a more severe injury, his absence is a major concern for the team’s short-term playoff aspirations.

Stephen Curry Injury Details: How It Happened

The moment that silenced the Target Center came in the second quarter, when Curry made a routine mid-range floater. As he landed, he immediately reached for his left hamstring, grimaced in pain, and quickly motioned to the Warriors’ bench. The training staff escorted him back to the locker room, and he was ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Before exiting, Curry had already tallied 13 points in 13 minutes, showcasing his usual efficiency by going 5-for-9 from the field, including 3-for-6 from beyond the arc.

It was a performance that hinted at vintage Curry dominance, and his early exit left Warriors fans and coaches equally concerned. His availability is crucial not just for shot-making, but also for drawing defenders and orchestrating offensive schemes.

The Warriors announced that Curry will be reevaluated in one week, which effectively rules him out for at least Game 2 and Game 3 of the series. ESPN reports that his return will depend on how well he responds to rehabilitation and recovery in the coming days.

How Curry’s Absence Impacts the Warriors’ Playoff Push

At age 37, Stephen Curry continues to be the emotional and strategic engine for the Golden State Warriors. During the first-round series against the Houston Rockets, Curry averaged 24 points, 5.9 rebounds, and 5.7 assists, leading his team to a hard-fought victory in seven games.

Now, against a physically dominant and youthful Timberwolves team, Curry’s absence will demand a collective step-up from the rest of the Warriors’ roster.

Key impacts of Curry’s injury:

• Offensive spacing: Curry’s presence opens up the floor like few others in NBA history. Without him, defenses will sag into the paint and pressure Klay Thompson and Andrew Wiggins more aggressively.

• Ball movement: While Draymond Green is a capable facilitator, Curry’s off-ball movement and decision-making are irreplaceable. Expect a slower, more predictable offense without him.

• Leadership void: Curry’s leadership is vital, especially in tight postseason battles. His absence could impact team morale during hostile road games in Minneapolis.

Warriors’ Depth Test: Who Must Step Up in Curry’s Absence

Head coach Steve Kerr now faces a massive challenge in reconfiguring his lineup and rotation for the next few games. The Warriors’ bench will need to deliver at an elite level, and their veteran core must lead from the front.

Klay Thompson, known for his playoff heroics, will need to regain his shooting rhythm and take on a heavier scoring load. Meanwhile, Jordan Poole, once a breakout star, must recover his confidence and consistency to become the offensive spark plug the Warriors desperately need.

Other X-factors include:

• Chris Paul: The veteran point guard is expected to take over primary ball-handling duties. Though slower, his control and playmaking can help stabilize the offense.

• Jonathan Kuminga: His athleticism and defensive versatility will be needed, especially against the size and speed of Minnesota’s wings.

• Gary Payton II: Defensive pressure and transition opportunities could swing momentum in Curry’s absence, and Payton’s energy could prove vital.

Minnesota Timberwolves: Can They Capitalize on This Opportunity?

On the other side of the court, Anthony Edwards, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Rudy Gobert are eyeing a major playoff breakthrough. After losing Game 1, the Timberwolves will no doubt treat Curry’s injury as an open window to seize control of the series.

Minnesota’s strengths—rebounding, rim protection, and physical defense—were evident in Game 1 despite the loss. If they can contain Golden State’s perimeter shooters and dominate the glass, they could easily flip the momentum.

Coach Chris Finch will likely game-plan aggressively, aiming to exploit Curry’s absence by pressuring the Warriors’ backcourt, especially during away games where role players traditionally struggle.

Game 2 is now must-win territory for Minnesota. If they can tie the series before heading to San Francisco for Game 3 and 4, the pressure will shift entirely to Golden State.

What’s Next: Timeline and Games Affected

With Curry expected to be sidelined at least one week, here’s how the series schedule aligns:

• Game 2 – Thursday in Minneapolis (Curry OUT)

• Game 3 – Sunday in San Francisco (Curry questionable)

• Game 4 – Tuesday, May 14 in San Francisco (Curry possible return)

• Game 5 – Wednesday, May 15 in Minneapolis (Target return date)

• Game 6 – Saturday, May 18 in San Francisco (If necessary)

As things stand, the Warriors are hopeful that Curry can return for Game 5, but only if his recovery goes smoothly. Any setbacks in his rehab could push his return to Game 6 or potentially Game 7, making it a race against time.

Stephen Curry’s Legacy and Longevity: What’s at Stake

At 37 years old, Stephen Curry remains one of the league’s most beloved and influential figures. But every injury raises questions about his long-term durability. Though this Grade 1 hamstring strain isn’t serious in isolation, it comes after a season filled with nagging lower-body issues.

For Warriors fans, this postseason could be one of the final chances to witness the full core of Curry, Thompson, Green, and Kerr chasing a title together. The window is narrowing, and every playoff game carries added weight.

If Curry can return swiftly and effectively, this could be yet another chapter in his legendary postseason résumé. If not, it might mark the beginning of a slow and painful transition away from the Warriors dynasty era.