The Golden State Warriors will face the Philadelphia 76ers without Stephen Curry, as the superstar is sidelined with runner’s knee, also known as patellofemoral pain syndrome, following an MRI on Saturday, January 31.
Curry exited the Detroit Pistons game late in the third quarter after sprinting for a layup, and did not return, prompting the Warriors to prioritize rest, recovery, and cautious monitoring of the veteran guard’s condition.
“Runner’s knee” refers to irritation in the tissues around the kneecap, and Dr. Nirav Pandya, MD, notes that age and increased workload can heighten the risk, with rest and targeted therapy being the cornerstone of treatment.
Symptoms include front-of-knee pain that worsens while running, climbing stairs, squatting, or sitting for long periods, although Mayo Clinic emphasizes the issue is rarely severe and usually responds to RICE: rest, ice, compression, and elevation.
So now the veteran Curry is currently listed as day-to-day, yet his central role in the Warriors offense, and the high stakes of the Western Conference, make careful management essential to preserving his performance over the season.
“I would imagine it’s something that we have to really monitor here, especially before the All-Star break,” Steve Kerr said, noting that Curry may need selective rest to sustain effectiveness.
Despite missing 11 games already, Curry continues to carry much of the Warriors offensive load, and with teammates like Draymond Green providing support, balancing minutes and intensity is key to long-term success.
Who do the Warriors play next? Date and time for Golden State’s next game
Golden State will meet the Philadelphia 76ers on Tuesday, February 4, at 22:30 ET / 19:30 PT at Chase Center, San Francisco, and Curry‘s availability remains uncertain, as the team continues to weigh rest, rehab, and practice participation.
With back-to-back games looming, careful rotation, and load management for key players, including De’Anthony Melton and Al Horford, will be essential, especially if Curry‘s minutes remain limited.
The Warriors also face several high-stakes Western Conference matchups, meaning each game without Curry could affect standings, rotations, and the team’s offensive strategy, while keeping him fresh for the postseason.
Coach Kerr has praised the bench’s contributions, noting that supporting Curry, managing minutes, and maintaining team balance will be crucial for sustaining competitive performance throughout the remainder of the season.
Even if Curry misses additional games, Golden State aims to stay competitive, leveraging smart rotations, targeted rest, and careful monitoring to ensure he is ready for key playoff moments, while maintaining momentum in the regular season.
Next Golden State Warriors Game: Key Details
* Opponent: Philadelphia 76ers (28-21/.571)
* Date: Tuesday, February 4
* Tip-Off: 19:30 PT / 22:30 ET
* Venue: Chase Center, San Francisco, California
* Broadcast: ABC and ESPN
* Streaming: ESPN App, Hulu Live, and NBA League Pass
