Injuries are never a welcomed development, but there are ideals moments for them to happen. Stephen Curry is looking at the bright side.
ESPN’s Chris Haynes notes the Golden State Warriors point guard was disappointed he couldn’t play against his hometown Charlotte Hornets but said the timing of his ankle injury was the best possible scenario.
“Yeah, you know, I wanted to play here at home, but it’s better it happened now rather than later in the season. It gives me time to get healthy and the team time to find continuity. This should be good for us in the long run.”
The injury — a right sprained ankle — occurred Dec. 4 against the New Orleans Pelicans, and Curry exited the game. An MRI was negative, but he recently showed up to practice in a walking boot. There is currently no firm timetable for a return.
Fortunately for the Warriors, they have the luxury of turning to perennial All-Star Kevin Durant as the featured player.
The former league MVP took control of Golden State’s first contest without Curry, pouring in 35 points on 13-of-28 shooting and also dishing 10 assists. Durant added 11 rebounds to record a triple-double in the 101-87 win over the Hornets.
Plus, Curry’s absence — while not an optimal situation — will allow more minutes for G-League call-up Quinn Cook, as well as Shaun Livingston. The Warriors are in no danger of missing the playoffs, so any additional time to build chemistry can be valuable.
Golden State is at its best with Curry healthy, but if there’s ever a moment for him to miss action, it’s right now.