Stephen Curry Aims to Lead Warriors' Playoff Push After Injury

Two-time MVP returns from knee injury to boost Golden State's postseason hopes

Apr. 13, 2026 at 3:25pm

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A dynamic, cubist-inspired illustration depicting the energy and movement of a basketball game, with sharp geometric shapes and bold colors capturing the intensity of the action on the court.Curry's return sparks renewed hope for the Warriors' playoff push, as the team's superstar aims to lead an unlikely postseason run.Today in Sacramento

Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry is back on the court after missing over two months due to a knee injury. Despite the Warriors' struggles this season, the 38-year-old Curry is determined to help the team make a surprise playoff run as the 10th seed in the Western Conference. Curry is eager to get back on the floor and contribute, even if the Warriors face long odds to reach the playoffs.

Why it matters

Curry's return is a major boost for the Warriors, who have dealt with numerous injuries this season and are fighting just to make the playoffs. As one of the most beloved players in the NBA, Curry's presence on the court provides a lift to the team and its fanbase. His ability to elevate the Warriors' play could be the difference in whether they can pull off an unlikely postseason berth.

The details

Curry missed 27 games due to patellofemoral pain syndrome in his right knee, during which the Warriors went 9-18. In his first game back, Curry scored 29 points against the Rockets, showing no signs of rust. The Warriors will need Curry at his best as they face a pair of elimination games on the road to earn the 8th seed and a chance to face the top-seeded Oklahoma City Thunder in the first round.

  • Curry returned to action on April 10, 2026 after missing over two months.
  • The Warriors will play the Clippers in an elimination game on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

The players

Stephen Curry

A two-time NBA MVP and four-time champion with the Golden State Warriors, Curry is one of the most beloved and iconic players in the league. At 38 years old, he is nearing the end of his illustrious career but remains determined to lead the Warriors to the playoffs.

Draymond Green

A key member of the Warriors' championship teams, Green has provided stability and leadership to the team this season despite the numerous injuries.

Steve Kerr

The Warriors' head coach, Kerr has guided the team to four NBA titles and is hopeful that Curry's return can spark a late-season surge.

Jimmy Butler

The Warriors' starting guard, Butler suffered a torn ACL in January and has been rehabbing his injury on the sidelines.

Kristaps Porzingis

The Warriors acquired the veteran big man Porzingis at the trade deadline, but his availability has been limited by health challenges.

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What they’re saying

“There's a momentum and a confidence. He's Steph Curry for a reason.”

— Steve Kerr, Head Coach

“Whatever we put our mind to — now that Superman's back.”

— Gary Payton II, Guard

“He makes the game a lot easier for everybody. Things just kind of fit into their normal spots.”

— Draymond Green, Forward

What’s next

The Warriors will play the Clippers in an elimination game on Wednesday, April 15, 2026, with the winner earning the 8th seed in the Western Conference playoffs.

The takeaway

Curry's return provides a much-needed boost of energy and optimism for the Warriors, who have endured a challenging season marred by injuries. While the odds are stacked against them, Curry's leadership and talent could still propel the team to an unlikely playoff berth and a chance to make a surprise run.