Warriors Starter Struggles Due to Injury, Pressing

Steve Kerr reveals De'Anthony Melton's poor performance was caused by a thumb injury and pressing too much.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 6:07am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting a basketball game or match, with sharp planes of color and overlapping shapes that capture the dynamic energy of the sport.A cubist interpretation of the Warriors' struggles without Curry, as Melton's injury-plagued performance highlights the team's need to get healthy for the playoffs.Denver Today

Golden State Warriors guard De'Anthony Melton had a rough game against the Denver Nuggets, scoring 0 points on 0-of-5 shooting with 3 assists and 2 turnovers. Head coach Steve Kerr said Melton has been playing through a thumb injury that has been bothering him, leading him to press too much and make poor decisions. Melton's struggles have come at an inopportune time as he approaches free agency this offseason.

Why it matters

Melton's poor play is a concern for the Warriors, who are already dealing with the absence of star Stephen Curry. Melton has been a key contributor this season, but his recent slump could impact his upcoming free agency if teams feel he is overpaid at his current production level.

The details

Melton had a game-worst plus-minus of -29 as the Nuggets outscored the Warriors 70-40 in the second half. Kerr said Melton's left hand was wrapped as he left the locker room, indicating the thumb injury. Melton has struggled mightily since late February, making just 37.9% of his shots and 26.2% of his 3-pointers in that stretch.

  • On March 26, the Warriors lost to the Nuggets 123-96.
  • Since February 28, Melton has shot just 37.9% from the field and 26.2% from 3-point range.

The players

Steve Kerr

Head coach of the Golden State Warriors.

De'Anthony Melton

A 24-year-old guard for the Golden State Warriors who has been playing through a thumb injury.

Stephen Curry

The star point guard of the Golden State Warriors who has missed the last 25 games with a runner's knee injury.

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What they’re saying

“He's banged up. His thumb is really bothering him and I think he's pressing a bit. He's dribbling into traffic. ... He's had a great season. Last couple games have been tough, but he's been banged up and we'll help him get right.”

— Steve Kerr, Head Coach, Golden State Warriors

What’s next

The Warriors will look to get Melton healthy and back on track as they push for the playoffs without the injured Stephen Curry. Melton's upcoming free agency will also be an important storyline to monitor, as his recent struggles could impact the size of his next contract.

The takeaway

Melton's thumb injury and pressing play have contributed to his recent slump, which is concerning for the Warriors as they try to weather the absence of Stephen Curry. Melton's upcoming free agency could also be impacted if teams feel he is overpaid based on his current production level.