Warriors Rookie Suffers Severe Ankle Injury in Loss to Lakers

Steve Kerr confirms LJ Cryer's ankle sprain, casting doubt on his availability for crucial Play-In Tournament games.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 5:53am

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A cubist, multi-perspective painting depicting a basketball player's ankle in a twisted, fragmented state, with sharp geometric planes in the team colors of the Warriors and Lakers, conveying the severity and impact of the injury.A fractured, geometric illustration captures the severity of the Warriors' latest injury setback as they fight to secure a playoff spot.Los Angeles Today

In a 103-119 loss to the Los Angeles Lakers, Golden State Warriors rookie LJ Cryer suffered a severe ankle injury that was heard on the broadcast. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr confirmed Cryer sprained his ankle and will be re-evaluated on Friday, putting his status for the upcoming Play-In Tournament in jeopardy.

Why it matters

The Warriors are already dealing with a depleted roster and the loss of Cryer, who has been a key floor-spacer, further complicates their chances of securing a playoff spot through the Play-In Tournament. This latest injury blow comes at the worst possible time for a Warriors team fighting to extend their season.

The details

Cryer made a drive to the basket in the fourth quarter and landed awkwardly on his right ankle, causing a loud snap that was audible on the broadcast. He had to be helped off the court by his teammates and Warriors staff. Cryer finished the game with 8 points, 2 assists, 1 rebound and 1 steal in 15 minutes of play before the injury.

  • The injury occurred in the fourth quarter of the Warriors' 103-119 loss to the Lakers on April 10, 2026.
  • Cryer will be re-evaluated on Friday, April 11, 2026 to determine the severity of the sprain and his availability for upcoming games.

The players

LJ Cryer

A 24-year-old rookie guard for the Golden State Warriors who has averaged 8.2 points and shot nearly 40% from 3-point range over 17 games this season.

Steve Kerr

The head coach of the Golden State Warriors, who confirmed Cryer's ankle sprain and his uncertain status for upcoming games.

Jarred Vanderbilt

A player for the Los Angeles Lakers who briefly lost his balance when Cryer fell and injured his ankle.

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What’s next

Cryer will be re-evaluated on Friday, April 11, 2026 to determine the severity of his ankle sprain and whether he will be available for the Warriors' crucial Play-In Tournament games.

The takeaway

The Warriors' injury woes continue to mount at the worst possible time, with the loss of rookie LJ Cryer further depleting their roster and complicating their chances of securing a playoff spot through the Play-In Tournament. This latest setback highlights the team's ongoing battle with injuries and the uphill climb they face in extending their season.