At this point, the Warriors are a shell of the powerhouse they used to be. Nostalgia can cloud one’s perception of reality, although a lot of Dubs fans know that their time as a competitive team with Curry leading the way is coming to an end.

But no one should ever forget how incredibly fun to watch the Curry-led Warriors were at their heyday, even though it’s nearly been a decade since they sealed a historic 73-win campaign.

Curry is at least doing his part to make sure his legacy lives on long after he hangs up his sneakers, as he recreated Hall of Fame commentator Mike Breen’s iconic “double bang” call of his game-winner from the hash line back in 2016 against the Oklahoma City Thunder.

Malika Andrews: "We have Mike Breen on the call. What's your best double bang impression?"

Steph Curry: "Decide not to use it, from way downtown. Bang! Bang!"

(via @espn)pic.twitter.com/oIyi8i9haJ

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) March 1, 2026

Stephen Curry, Warriors are on their last legs

Curry and the Warriors, during their prime, were so unstoppable. Defenses back then were yet to figure out how to maximize the mathematical advantage of the three-point shot, but there Curry was, lighting up opposing defenses like it was nobody’s business.

The Dubs won four rings with Curry as the star of the show, and the addition of Kevin Durant should not diminish Curry and the Warriors’ winning legacy whatsoever. All good things come to an end, however, and the Warriors, in the aftermath of the Jimmy Butler injury, may be just watching time tick away on the final few good years of Curry’s NBA career.

The post Warriors’ Stephen Curry perfectly recreates Mike Breen’s iconic ‘Bang Bang’ call appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Richard is going through the rookie campaign of his NBA career, having enjoyed an incredible collegiate career at Florida that included winning the national championship. He has made valuable strides in the rotation, earning Steve Kerr’s trust as a reliable two-way player.

However, Richard had misfortune happen to him during Golden State’s contest against Los Angeles. He injured his ankle in the first half, needing to go to the locker room for evaluation.

Golden State confirmed it as an ankle injury, stating that Richard will miss the remainder of the game. His night ends after five minutes of action, finishing with four points, one rebound and a block.

How Warriors played against Lakers amid Will Richard’s injury

The Warriors will hope for the best when it comes to Will Richard’s injury. However, they were unable to keep up with the Lakers as they lost in a 129-101 blowout at home.

Los Angeles set the tone early on, taking a 33-20 lead after the first quarter. Golden State never recovered from that slow start, not having enough offense to stay in the contest.

Four players scored in double-digits for Golden State in the loss. Gui Santos led the team in scoring with 14 points, four rebounds and two assists. Moses Moody came next with 12 points and three rebounds, Gary Payton II had 12 points and three assists, while De’Anthony Melton provided 10 points and four assists.

Golden State fell to a 31-29 record on the season, holding the eighth spot in the Western Conference standings. They are above the Portland Trail Blazers by 2.5 games and the Los Angeles Clippers by three games. However, they trail the Phoenix Suns by three games and the Los Angeles Lakers by 4.5 games.

The Warriors will look to bounce back in their next matchup, remaining at home. They host the Clippers as tip-off will take place on March 2 at 10 p.m. ET.

The post Warriors’ Will Richard exits Lakers clash with ankle injury appeared first on ClutchPoints.

And as has been true a lot in the past, it is Draymond Green once again who is leading Golden State from the front despite the adversity. Green was in full floor general mode during the first half of the clash against the Warriors, per a clip posted on X by NBA on ESPN.

Draymond mic'd up and leading the Warriors vs. the Lakers

ABC, ESPN App pic.twitter.com/m4WOqvgwvH

— NBA on ESPN (@ESPNNBA) March 1, 2026

A mic’d Green can be seen initially wishing Luka Doncic, who turned 27 on February 28, a happy birthday, before directing Gary Peyton II to defend Austin Reaves with 9:58 remaining in the second quarter.

“Force this inside, don’t switch it. Just don’t let him get a direct pass right here,” he was heard telling Peyton, who walked to Reaves immediately.
Green was then seen giving a resounding speech to the Warriors bench, asking them to defend better as the Lakers began the game well. They finished with a 33-20 first quarter, extending their lead to 65-47 at the end of the second.

Payton came off the bench to score 10 in the first half with De’Anthony Melton scoring eight for Golden State. LeBron James already had a game-high 20 points in the first half, with Austin Reaves and Luka Doncic adding 13 and 10, respectively.

The Lakers look on track to get their first win in four games, with their big three threatening to take over. The Warriors are without Jimmy Butler, Stephen Curry and Kristaps Porzingis, among others.

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Ahead of the Warriors’ primetime matchup with the Los Angeles Lakers, Steve Kerr had to walk back comments he made about Porzingis’ POTS diagnosis the previous day in a radio interview with 95.7 The Game.

“It was a stupid mistake by me to talk about something that I’m not qualified to talk about,” Kerr said. “So I regret even trying to discuss the diagnosis. That was my mistake, and I need to leave that to the professionals.”

Kerr had told radio hosts Mark Willard and Dan Dibley that Porzingis’s POTS diagnosis was incorrect, describing it as “misinformation” and that the illness that kept him out of games for the Atlanta Hawks was something else entirely.

“When I heard about the trade, I read about the POTS diagnosis, and I called [Hawks GM] Onsi [Saleh] … and said, ‘Is this POTS story real?’” Kerr recounted on the radio.

“And he said, ‘It’s actually not POTS.’ That was some misinformation that was out there. I don’t know if anybody’s asked him about it. Bottom line is, whatever was bothering him in Atlanta that was keeping him out had nothing to do with the illness (this) week. He was just sick. … He was sick enough where he was losing a lot of fluid and contagious, so we just kept him home, and he’s doing a lot better now.”

It was a strange gaffe for a coach who is usually very media savvy, as Porzingis’ POTS diagnosis was something he himself shared with The Athletic last season. And it’s been widely reported that this specific health issue is what’s cost him so many games the last two seasons.

Where does that leave Kristaps Porzingis and the Warriors?

Kerr’s walkback comes as Porzingis remains sidelined for his fourth straight game due to the nebulous illness currently plaguing him. Details about Porzingis’s symptoms and the kind of illness he’s been dealing with have been sparse.

What is known about Porzingis’s health status is that he practiced on Friday for the first time since falling ill. There was hope that he could be available for this Lakers game, as the team classified him as questionable heading into the game. But ultimately, the team ruled him out, opting for a conservative approach to his health and recovery.

In the same presser, Kerr said he could not give specifics on Porzingis’s condition.

“I can’t really say anything,” Kerr said. “Just a medical issue way beyond my capabilities of explaining anything. So, yeah, he’s sick. He won’t play, and we’ll keep monitoring.”

All in all, it makes for a muddied situation.

Porzingis’s health concerns were something the Warriors were aware of when they traded for him. Kerr and general manager Mike Dunleavy both expressed their confidence in managing his health. But with this recent walkback and the team’s unwillingness to share more specific details of Porzingis’s status, it muddies when we can expect him to return to action. Especially because he’s their big trade deadline acquisition.

As of right now, the boost they were searching for – and confident in getting – in exchange for Jonathan Kuminga has amounted to very little. Regardless, the Warriors will continue to monitor Porzingis and his health.

The post Warriors’ Steve Kerr walks back Kristaps Porzingis’ POTS comments: ‘It was a stupid mistake’ appeared first on ClutchPoints.

The Lakers have been handed a major boost considering Stephen Curry is confirmed to be out in addition to Jimmy Butler. They themselves have almost a clean injury report, and will once again look at Luka Doncic to provide the offensive impetus. The overall injury outlook has also translated in the odds, with DraftKings giving favorable odds to the visitors.

Lakers vs. Warriors Odds

Lakers: -4.5 

Warriors: +4.5 

Over: 229.5 

Under: 229.5

Lakers vs. Warriors Key Injuries

Stephen Curry has been officially ruled out due to a knee injury. The Warriors will also be without Jimmy Butler III, Seth Curry, and LJ Cryer. Forward Draymond Green is listed as probable, while big man Kristaps Porzingis is questionable to suit up. 

The Lakers enter the contest relatively healthy, with Rui Hachimura questionable and two absentees including Bronny James due to G League assignments.

Lakers vs. Warriors Betting Trends

The Lakers are 21-13 against the spread (ATS) as a favorite this season, including a sharp 10-6 ATS mark as a road favorite. Los Angeles has been highly profitable in tight lines, going 7-2 ATS when favored by between two and five points. They are also 4-2 ATS in their last six meetings with Golden State.

Golden State has struggled to cover recently, posting a 3-7 ATS record over its last 10 games. They are 5-8 ATS when entering as an underdog of 4.5 points or more this season.

The Over has been a dominant trend in this rivalry, cashing in eight of the past 10 head-to-head matchups between the Lakers and Warriors. The Over has hit in 57.6% of Golden State’s games overall this season, including five of their last six contests.

Keys to Lakers vs. Warriors Matchup

The Lakers (34-24) arrive at the Chase Center desperate to stop the three-game losing streak that includes a 22-point blowout against the Celtics and a narrow 113-110 defeat in Phoenix. They have all three of their big-3 fit and firing, although that has also been the case in the recent losses. Still, the Lakers know that they will face a lineup without their best players and have enough firepower to mount a resounding victory even.

Golden State will need Draymond Green to orchestrate the offense at anchor the defence while while they continue to rely on  Brandin Podziemski (12.3 PPG) and Moses Moody (12.0 PPG) for scoring.

Lakers vs. Warriors Prediction and Pick

The Lakers boast a stellar 18-12 straight-up record on the road and are looking much better on the injury report. The Warriors are always vulnerable without Curry and may struggle to keep up against a stack attack.

At the same time, LA continues to show vulnerability inside the paint and has actually been worse with their best players all on the court. Still, this should prove straightforward for Luka Doncic and company.

Spread Pick: Lakers -4.5

Over/Under Pick: Over 229.5

The post Lakers vs. Warriors prediction, odds, pick – 2/28/2026 appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Santos and the Warriors agreed to a contract extension, the team announced Saturday morning– a three-year, $15-million deal with a player option for 2028-29, according to Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints. Santos was set to be a restricted free agent this summer but the Warriors signed him to a deal that benefits both sides.

With injuries and absences plaguing Golden State this season, Santos emerged as a key rotational piece in Steve Kerr’s system. A 2022 second-round draft pick out of Brazil, the third-year forward worked his way from the Warriors’ G-League affiliate in Santa Cruz to now a guy that Kerr and the Dubs trust to close with in tightly contested games.

Since Kerr entrenched him as a starter about a month ago, Santos has averaged 15.0 points, 5.6 rebounds, and 3.8 assists in 28.8 minutes across 12 games.

In that stretch, Santos has come up with two game-winning buckets– a fastbreak layup to take the lead against the Phoenix Suns and a chaotic layup in traffic at home against the Memphis Grizzlies.

“He’s taken another step this year, Gui has,” Kerr told reporters after the win in Memphis earlier this week. “Last year, he was a very important role player for us. Number one on the team in plus-minus and after the [Jimmy Butler] trade, he really solidified that role. But now, he’s become more on-ball as a creator [and] a post-up guy. The step-through move that you saw was incredible.

“He has the ability to play point guard when the other team is pressuring us. He’s really a versatile player and somebody we really value.”

Santos’ journey to the NBA

For Santos, his journey to this point in his career has taken patience. After the team’s practice Thursday afternoon, Santos reflected on what he had to do to become a guy capable of sticking around in the NBA.

“I think the keyword for that is patience,” Santos said.

“Patience, because when I got here, I was a point guard playing back in Brazil. I was playing as a point guard, having the ball in my hand, and I spent the whole year in the G-League just learning how to fit in the system here, because my goal always was playing in the NBA, playing for the Warriors. And I asked [Kerr], what I got to do that. And he was like, all right, I’m gonna give you the way, like, you gotta play hard in defense. You’ve got to be crashing the boards all the time, and you just got to find Steph.”

Safe to say, Santos did all of those things, which is why Kerr felt comfortable increasing his minutes this season after not seeing much action in the two seasons prior.

But ultimately, what sticks out about Santos has been his unrelenting positivity and upbeat persona. Rarely will you find Santos without a big smile on his face, whether that’s at the podium, at practice, or talking with teammates. It’s why even now, he remains grateful for the opportunity and support the Warriors have given him.

“The coaches here, the staff, and the organization, they’re always nice for me,” Santos said. “They always help me with everything that I need, and right now they’re giving me the opportunity to show a little bit more because of all that happened.”

Gui Santos reflected on his journey up to this point, now a key guy for the Dubs:

“The key word for that is patience. Because when I got here, I was a point guard playing back in Brazil… and I spent the whole year in the G-league just learning how to fit in the system here.” pic.twitter.com/Q2tyVmjhEQ

— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) February 27, 2026

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Rui Hachimura injury status vs. Warriors

After sitting out of the Lakers’ last game, a 113-110 loss to the Suns, Rui Hachimura is on track for a second consecutive absence. The team lists its seventh-year forward as doubtful with his lingering illness on the official injury report.

Hachimura has missed 11 games this year and has bounced in and out of the starting lineup. He is still a crucial part of JJ Redick’s vision, averaging the fourth-most minutes on the team.

Against the Suns, Hachimura’s playing time went to Jake LaRavia, who chipped in 11 points in 28 minutes off the bench. However, Jarred Vanderbilt could be in line for additional court time against a bigger Warriors team if the Japanese forward misses another game.

While Hachimura is the only significant absence for the Lakers, the Warriors are dealing with a plethora of injuries. Golden State will still be without Stephen Curry, who has not played since Jan. 30, though Draymond Green is on track to return from a one-game absence.

De’Anthony Melton, Brandin Podziemski and Moses Moody have guided the Warriors in the absence of their stars. Rookie Will Richard is also coming off a 21-point outing in a win over the Memphis Grizzlies, his highest-scoring game since November.

Lakers injury report

Rui Hachimura — Doubtful, illness

Bronny James — OUT, G League

Adou Thiero — OUT, G League

Warriors injury report

Jimmy Butler — OUT, Right ACL surgery

LJ Cryer — OUT, G League

Seth Curry — OUT, Left sciatic nerve irritation

Stephen Curry — OUT, Right patellofemoral pain syndrome

Draymond Green — Probable, Left lower back injury management

Kristaps Porzingis — Questionable, illness

The post Is Rui Hachimura playing tonight? Lakers vs. Warriors injury report appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Draymond Green and Kristaps Porzingis are both on the injury report ahead of this matchup, per the official injury report. Green is currently listed as probable as he manages a left low back injury, while Porzingis is questionable with a general illness.

While those two players might still play, Stephen Curry will not as he is confirmed to be out with a right patellofemoral injury. Curry joins the likes of his brother Seth, Jimmy Butler and LJ Cryer, who are all out.

For the Lakers, Rui Hachimura is doubtful while Bronny James and Adou Thierro are out due to G League assignments.

*Watch NBA games LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)*

Draymond Green and Kristaps Porzingis injury status vs. Lakers

Given Draymond Green is probable on the injury report, the assumption is he will be suiting up in what is a marquee matchup. The veteran forward is currently averaging 8.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 5.1 assists per contest while shooting 41% from the field.

Porzingis’s status is murkier, and he is less likely to play considering his questionable status. The division-leading Lakers (34-24) arrive in San Francisco desperate to snap a three-game losing streak following a narrow 113-110 loss to the Phoenix Suns on Thursday.

Despite their recent struggles, Los Angeles will look at their Big-3 for inspiration once again. Luka Doncic leads the NBA in scoring at 32.7 points per game (while adding 7.8 rebounds and 8.6 assists), Austin Reaves is enjoying a career year averaging 24.6 points, and the ageless LeBron James is contributing 21.5 points, 7.0 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per night.

Los Angeles and Golden State have split their first two head-to-head matchups this season, with both previous games taking place in Los Angeles. The Lakers are 18-12 on the road this year, while the Warriors are 19-11 on their home floor.

Lakers injury report

Rui Hachimura: Doubtful (Illness)

Bronny James: Out (G League – On Assignment)

Adou Thiero: Out (G League – On Assignment)

Warriors injury report

Draymond Green: Probable (Left Low Back Injury Management)

Kristaps Porzingis: Questionable (Illness)

Stephen Curry: Out (Right Patellofemoral Pain Syndrome)

Seth Curry: Out (Left Sciatic Nerve Irritation)

Jimmy Butler III: Out (Right ACL Surgery)

LJ Cryer: Out (G League – Two-Way)

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He was expected to be a strong backcourt complement to Stephen Curry, but the ACL injury forced the Warriors to explore other options for retooling their roster. But Melton returned to the Warriors in the summer of 2025, signing a two-year deal $6.53 million deal to try and finish what he started the year prior.

De’Anthony Melton missed the first 22 games of the season for the Warriors as he continued to rehab from the torn ACL, but finally made his season debut on December 4th against his former team in the Philadelphia 76ers. In 21 minutes of play, Melton recorded 14 points, three assists, and two steals.

Melton has quietly been trending upwards as the season has gone on. Since the calendar flipped to 2026, Melton has averaged 15 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.6 steals per game while shooting 45.4 percent from the field and 33.1 percent from three.

His best game of the season actually came this past week, when he scored a season-high 28 points, grabbed four rebounds, and dished out four assists in a season-high 28 minutes and 11 seconds of action.

The one thing Melton still hasn’t done yet is play back-to-back sets, a common thing for players to not do in their first year coming back from a serious injury.

According to Warriors head coach Steve Kerr, however, there’s a chance that De’Anthony Melton could be cleared to play in both halves of back-to-back sets at some point this season. In speaking with Bay Area radio hosts Willard and Dibs, Kerr said that Melton recently had his minutes restriction increased and could play in back-to-backs.

“There is a chance, but it’s not something that I know I can pinpoint when, but he is heading in a good direction,” Kerr said. “And we bumped his minutes restriction up so he’s playing more minutes in individual games and the next step hopefully is that he’ll play in back-to-backs, but I can’t tell you exactly when that is. That’ll be up to the training staff.”

On the show, Steve Kerr also made the revelation that Kristaps Porzingis is not presently dealing with POTS after reports that the illness had been affecting the center since his Boston Celtics days.

“When I heard about the trade, I read about his POTS diagnosis and then called Onsi Saleh, who was with us, he’s now Atlanta’s GM and he’s a good friend of mine,” Kerr explained. “I called him and I said, ‘is this POTS story real?’ And he said it’s actually not POTS. It was not POTS.’ So that was some misinformation that was out there.

“I don’t know if anybody’s asked him about it, but bottom line is whatever was bothering him in Atlanta that was keeping him out had nothing to do with the illness last week. He was just sick. There’s a lot going around as you guys know and he was sick enough where he was losing a lot of fluid and contagious so we just kept him home, but he’s doing a lot better now.”

The Golden State Warriors return home for a matchup against their division rival Los Angeles Lakers on Saturday night, one in which De’Anthony Melton is not listed on the injury report for. Kristaps Porzingis, who has played just one game with the Warriors since being traded from the Atlanta Hawks, is listed as questionable to play.

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Kristaps Porzingis had reportedly been dealing with postural tachycardia syndrome, a condition that causes an increased heart rate, dizziness, and even fatigue when transitioning from lying down or sitting to standing up, according to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke. The symptoms of POTS, which are caused by a lack of blood flow back to the heart when a person stands up, can also be relieved by sitting or laying down.

Porzingis had missed 14 straight games for the Atlanta Hawks before being traded at the NBA trade deadline to the Atlanta Hawks for Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield.

Since the trade, Porzingis has played just one of a possible eight games for the Warriors. He was able to make his Dubs debut on February 19th against the Boston Celtics, where he scored 12 points in 17 minutes of play, but has subsequently missed three straight games with an illness.

According to head coach Steve Kerr, however, Kristaps Porzingis is not dealing with POTS. Kerr recently spoke with Willard and Dibs, a Bay Area radio show that airs weekday afternoons, and it was there that he revealed Porzingis not dealing with POTS at all.

“When I heard about the trade, I read about his POTS diagnosis and then called Onsi Saleh, who was with us, he’s now Atlanta’s GM and he’s a good friend of mine,” Kerr explained. “I called him and I said, ‘is this POTS story real?’ And he said it’s actually not POTS. It was not POTS.’ So that was some misinformation that was out there.

“I don’t know if anybody’s asked him about it, but bottom line is whatever was bothering him in Atlanta that was keeping him out had nothing to do with the illness last week. He was just sick. There’s a lot going around as you guys know and he was sick enough where he was losing a lot of fluid and contagious so we just kept him home, but he’s doing a lot better now.”

For months, Kristaps Porzingis is thought to have been dealing with POTS and had led many to question what is actually left of his NBA career. But Steve Kerr says the Warriors received confirmation that Porzingis is not dealing with POTS ahead of the trade that sent Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield to the Hawks.

“I don’t really know what’s out there,” Kerr added. “I just know that we had internal discussions and I’ve talked to Kristaps and he told me he’s feeling good and we haven’t gone into depth with his illness stuff in Atlanta, but I got confirmation that it was not POTS, but it was something else that was really difficult to figure out and that’s sometimes the case, even in this modern age where we have a lot of answers, we never have all o them. Sometimes there’s just mysterious stuff.”

As of Friday night, Porzingis is listed as “Questionable” to play in Saturday night’s game against LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers due to an illness. While Stephen Curry continues to be listed as out with, “runner’s knee,” Draymond Green is listed as “probable” after missing the Warrior last game.

Porzingis has played in just 18 games so far this season between the Hawks and Warriors, averaging 16.8 points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 1.3 blocks per game while shooting 46.1 percent from the field and 36.3 percent from three.

The post Steve Kerr’s shocking revelation about Kristaps Porzingis’ POTS diagnosis appeared first on ClutchPoints.

After the Warriors’ Friday afternoon practice, Steve Kerr gave a positive update on the big man’s status.

“Kristaps was feeling better in practice today. First time he’s done much since the illness,” Kerr said. “He’ll be questionable [for the Lakers game].”

It’s been a rocky start for the Porzingis era in Golden State. After his mixed debut against the Boston Celtics, in which he collected 12 points on 5-of-9 shooting in 17 minutes of action, health has proven to be a hurdle once again for the big man. Ahead of the Denver game, the first game Porzingis missed in this stretch, Kerr said Porzingis’s illness was severe enough that he couldn’t leave his hotel room. And over the past week, Porzingis stayed back in the Bay to recover as the Dubs went on the road for a quick back-to-back.

With this illness rearing its head, Porzingis’ medical history with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) certainly comes to the forefront of speculation. In the past, Porzingis has battled with the chronic symptoms of POTS, mainly the increase in heart rate that subsequently causes dizziness and extreme exhaustion.

However, the Warriors have not officially linked this particular illness to that specific condition. Details regarding Porzingis’ symptoms and the specifics of his illness have been scarce and vague. Regardless, it’s an illness Golden State was aware of when they traded for him and felt confident they could manage.

Thus far, health has hindered Porzingis’ start in Golden State, but the hope is that they can get him back against the Lakers.

Draymond Green’s injury update

As for the other injury updates, Kerr said Draymond Green was able to participate in practice and that they expect him to be available against Los Angeles after holding him out against the Memphis Grizzlies due to lower back soreness.

But the issue with Green, as of late, has been when he has been available and on the court. Green’s decline on offense has had a trickle-down effect on the rest of the team whenever he sees the floor. In the last two games he’s missed, the Warriors have scored more than 120 points. And in the last two games, they’ve decided not to close with him; they’ve been able to gut out some close wins over the Phoenix Suns and Grizzlies.

On the season, the Warriors are 4.3 points worse per 100 possessions when Green is on the floor, which ranks in the bottom 22nd percentile among players at his position. For a player who was a historic on-off, plus/minus positive in his heyday, where he’s at now is a far cry from what he was in his prime.

It’s a problem Kerr is highly aware of. Last week, he said it’s on him and the coaching staff to put him in better positions to succeed. After practice, Kerr talked about how they can find a rhythm with him out there.

“We have to read the situation. New Orleans, we found more rhythm in the second half with Dray out there than we did in the first, and so it’s kind of some sets that we can call,” Kerr said. “Doing some of our off-ball stuff. And then some adjustments that he has to make without Steph, and those are all things that we talked about internally, and with the whole group.”

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The latest was GOAT, where he was a voice actor and co-producer of the animinated move. Brian Windhorst shared on the Hoop Collective that he went to see the movie.

“I went with my son’s basketball team to see the GOAT movie, Steph Curry’s movie,” Windhorst said. “I don’t know if it’s his movie.”

He then decided to rank the movie over a LeBron James classic.

“Awesome. With all due respect to Space Jam 2, GOAT is the GOAT. That’s all I’m going to say,” Windhorst said.

It’s hard to know if other people agree with Windhorst’s take, but many enjoyed Space Jam 2 and what it had to offer as a new era version of the first one, which starred Michael Jordan.

This also doesn’t seem to be a subtle shot at James from Windhorst, even though both had some jabs for each other last season.

James went on the Pat McAfee Show last season and spoke about Windhorst.

“I’ve seen Brian Windhorst on one of these shows not too long ago… This guy says he’s like my f—— best friend,” James said. “These guys are just weird.”

Windhorst responded with respect and honesty instead of hatred.

“LeBron doesn’t owe me anything. I owe him a lot. He has been a great friend to my hometown and my alma mater. That I would stand on. Anything else, I would never say or never stand on,” Windhorst said on ESPN Cleveland.

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Howard posted on X, formerly known as Twitter:

“People like Taj Gibson & Al Horford is the reason I ain’t retired I want a farewell tour”

The message came shortly after the Memphis Grizzlies agreed to sign Gibson to a two-year contract following their buyout of Kyle Anderson, who joined the Minnesota Timberwolves. Gibson, 40, played during the 2024-25 season with the Charlotte Hornets, averaging 2.9 points and 3.2 rebounds in 11.1 minutes per game across 37 appearances, including 11 starts. He shot 49.5% from the field, 50% from three-point range and 60% from the free-throw line.

Horford, 39, also secured a new deal this offseason, signing a two-year, $12 million contract with the Golden State Warriors that includes a player option for the 2026-27 season. Horford has maintained a consistent role this season, averaging 21.2 minutes over 37 games with seven starts. He’s posting averages of eight points, 4.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.1 blocks while shooting 43.1% from the field, 35.4% from three and 89.5% from the free-throw line.

Dwight Howard points to Al Horford, Taj Gibson as blueprint for potential NBA return

Howard, 39, last appeared in the NBA during the 2021-22 season with the Los Angeles Lakers. In 60 games, including 27 starts, he averaged 6.2 points and 5.9 rebounds while shooting 61.2% from the field and 53.3% from three-point range in limited attempts.

A former No. 1 overall pick by the Orlando Magic in 2004, Howard built a Hall of Fame résumé over 18 seasons. He earned eight All-Star selections, three Defensive Player of the Year awards and led the Magic to the 2009 NBA Finals. He won an NBA championship with the Lakers during the 2019-20 season.

Howard was inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in September as part of the 2025 class that also included Carmelo Anthony.

While Howard has not formally announced comeback plans, his remarks suggest he remains motivated by the sustained careers of Horford and Gibson as he considers the possibility of a farewell tour in the NBA.

The post Dwight Howard using Al Horford, Taj Gibson as examples for possible NBA return appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Breaking down what makes elite defensive players so rare and difficult to replicate. Finding a couple for a roster is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

“There are very few guys who have impacted the defensive end like Draymond Green in general in my 23 years in the NBA. His ability to communicate and put out fires is second to none. (Green) quarterbacks that entire defense. He’s as close to Lawrence Taylor as we’ve seen in the NBA,” Borrego began. “I mean, that guy from that outside linebacker position, Mike Singletary, I think I’d put those two guys, that’s what Draymond has done for their defense.”

Green’s value extends far beyond the stat sheet, something the Warriors regularly acknowledge when times get tough.

Word has gotten around, even without Draymond yelling about it.

“Steve Kerr has said this multiple times. Without (Green), there are no championships,” noted Borrego. “He brings a different edge with his ability to communicate and talk, his physicality, and the way he covers for his teammates.”

Borrego sees a kindred football spirit in his own locker room. Jones, the 2022-23 All-Defensive first-team selection known as the Not on Herb nightmare around the NBA, possesses a similar instinctual mastery.

“(The Pelicans) have a guy like that, too. I think Herb Jones has this ability, this innate ability,” Borrego admitted. “I don’t even know if you can teach it. I don’t know where Draymond got it from, and I don’t know where Herb got it from. It’s probably a combination of growing up and how they grew up in different sports.”

Having a Monsters of the Midway attitude on the field or court helps. Most are born with it. Any coach who claims to have the competitive recipe that ends up being a Draymond or a Herb is either rich already and guarding the near-priceless secret or scamming AAU parents.

“Maybe they had a coach along the way. Maybe it’s a little bit of just being cerebral, where they can see fires before they even start and go put them out. (Green’s) ability to cover for Steph and Klay, everything happening in actions, it’s hard to find those types of guys.”

When it comes to being in a class-above, Draymond has earned the one-name star status reserved for the truly elite.

Borrego knows from being around some NBA Hall of Famers for a while.

“I’ve been around a couple of great defenders in Bruce Bowen and Kawhi Leonard. Individually, one-on-one, they’re amazing. Draymond to me is different in that he’s more cerebral off the ball,” Borrego confessed. “He’s doing this quarterbacking off the ball and changing stuff on the fly. He’s audibling like football, you’re making audibles on the fly in the heat of battle. Most guys can’t do that. Herb Jones is probably the closest thing I’ve seen where he can go take a defense and just kind of make it his own. ”

For Jones, the football comp shifts from a disruptive outside linebacker to a classic middle linebacker. Any coach with eyeballs knows what to do with the stalking type with antcipates everything.

“Turn him loose. (Jones) is a really special, really special player. Herb’s the one that I would say from a defensive standpoint is that type of cerebral defender, the middle linebacker, the Brian Urlacher, those types of guys that instinctively can make plays. They have a feel for what’s about to happen, and they go handle it.”

Analogies were not limited to the second lines, though that is why New Orleans is famous. Dome Patrol or dancing past a parade, doesn’t matter. When discussing rim protection, Borrego turned to the trenches, using DeAndre Jordan as the prime example of a nose tackle controlling the line of scrimmage.

“I think DeAndre Jordan has been interesting,” Borrego continued. “I’m not sure where you would put him in there, but his ability to protect the rim, he’d be the nose tackle or the guy right in the middle of the floor, like at the line of scrimmage. (Jordan) is going to own the line of scrimmage. To me, that’s how the protection of the paint is put in football terms. Really own the line of scrimmage. You’re going to win the running game. Those small margins, like the running game, are really important there.”

As for Zion Williamson, much like every other talking head with a hot take, Borrego believes the forward’s rare blend of power and athleticism would translate easily to the football field.

“And then (Williamson). I’ll probably find (a football comp) for Zion, too. I don’t have one off the top of my head, but just his ability to make spontaneous, athletic, powerful plays at any time. Zion belongs on the football field, too. I mean, he could go do that, you know, really as a defensive end.”

The Pelicans do not need any more injury setbacks, so do not expect Zion to be suiting up with the Saints this summer. Football during the downtime is all fun and games until someone gets hurt.

The post Pelicans’ James Borrego makes legendary NFL comparisons for Draymond Green, Zion Williamson appeared first on ClutchPoints.

With Draymond Green ruled out with lower back soreness, Stephen Curry and Kristaps Porzingis at home managing their health, and De’Anthony Melton resting per his back-to-back policy, the Warriors rallied with their second- and third-stringers.

“The way the ball moved,” coach Steve Kerr highlighted specifically, given the lack of rhythm in New Orleans. “We played through the post quite a bit, Al [Horford] was fantastic… He created a lot of advantages for us. They started doubling him, and we were able to move the ball really well. 37 assists. Just a really good night for everybody who stepped on the floor.”

Dubs guard Will Richard will be front and center on the poster as he led the team with 21 points, along with 5 rebounds, six assists, and three steals, but it was a true strength-in-numbers effort against tanking injury-riddled Grizzlies.

Birthday boy Podziemski continued his strong play as of late with 19 points, eight rebounds, and six assists. Gary Payton II kicked in 19 points with three steals. Gui Santos, Moses Moody, and Pat Spencer combined for 43 points. Al Horford returned with a solid 10 points and seven rebounds, and Quinten Post tossed in 12 points and eight rebounds. Even two-way player Malefy Leons got in on the action with nine points, eight rebounds, and two steals, which the head coach loved.

“I’m really enjoying coaching these guys,” Kerr said. “The energy, the enthusiasm, supporting each other, it’s a really fun group.

Brandin Podziemski finding balance

Podziemski’s third season hasn’t gone the way many would have liked, given all his ups and downs. With his struggles offensively and lack of a fireworks-esque leap in his game, the combo guard had a tough time finding his way as the Warriors search for answers to their own up-and-down season. But over the last couple of games, the Warriors have leaned on his all-around, Swiss Army Knife game, and he’s succeeded in kind.

Over his last six games, Podziemski has averaged 16.0 points, 9.0 rebounds, and 5.2 assists. Most notably in that stretch is back-to-back games with 15 rebounds, a trait rare in guards that makes him highly valuable even if the scoring isn’t always there.

“Brandin’s been great. Just the totality of his game,” Kerr said. “What he does on the glass, handling the ball, playing off the ball. We’re trying to find that balance. He still, at times, gets himself in trouble, but he’s also a young player who has the ability to do a lot. And he’s trying to do a lot. So it’s all with great intentions. Just finding that balance, and he’s doing a great job of that.”

Finding that balance has been the battle for Podziemski this year. As Kerr has harped on all year, Podziemski’s at his best when he’s getting off the ball quickly– when he’s not overburdening himself with too much.

“During the game, I don’t think about it,” Podziemski said after the Denver win earlier this week. “I just do what the game calls for. I know my IQ for the game, and knowing things is what got me this far. The worst thing you can do is second-guess your decisions, and it looks even worse. So I just go out there and play the game.”

Warriors return home

The Warriors complete the short road trip 1-1 and will return home to face the Los Angeles Lakers. Going .500 the rest of the season is pretty much the recipe for Golden State moving forward as they look to retain their spot in the standings. With teams like Memphis below them dedicated to tanking, the margin of error isn’t all that slim, even with their injuries. What that means for actual playoff contention is another story, but for now, they’re doing enough to tread water.

As for their injury updates, Kerr expects Green back for the Lakers game as they opted to play it safe on the backend of this back-to-back. For Porzingis, we’ll get a better idea of how he’s managing his illness in the coming days. And for the kingpin of this whole operation, Curry is set to be re-evaluated on February 28th, with the hope that the inflammation in his knee has settled down enough for him to return to play. His runner’s knee has been a nebulous injury. No structural damage, but enough discomfort to keep him sidelined.

Regardless, this kind of win showed what this Warriors team is about right now. Capable of winning with their depth, albeit against lesser teams, and more than fiesty against stiffer competition. They’ll look to continue their scrappy play back home in the Bay.

The post Brandin Podziemski helps undermanned Warriors deliver birthday beatdown to Grizzlies appeared first on ClutchPoints.

But the Warriors still got back on the winning track; it was a team effort that spearheaded a 133-112 win for the Dubs on the road. Eight different players scored in double figures for the Warriors, and it was rookie guard Will Richard who ended the night as the team’s leading scorer, with 21 points on 9-15 shooting from the field and 2-6 shooting from deep.

Richard added five rebounds, six assists, and three steals to complete a well-rounded effort to lead the Warriors in victory. In so doing, Richard became just the fourth rookie this season to tally at least 20 points, five rebounds, five assists, and three steals in a single game, joining Cooper Flagg, Kon Knueppel, and Jeremiah Fears as the only ones to do so, according to WillRichardMuse on X (formerly Twitter).

It has to be said that Richard got the opportunity to stuff the stat sheet due to the absences of a few key players for the Dubs. Nonetheless, he has shown time and time again that he can step up when given the opportunity, and this was exactly what he did.

Warriors continue to grind amid trying season

The hits have kept on coming for the Warriors; Curry is currently dealing with a knee injury, and the man they got in exchange for Jonathan Kuminga just could not string together a few games amid his unceasing bout with POTS.

The Warriors will need more of these games from their more unheralded players, and Richard should earn himself more minutes if he keeps this level of play up.

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The Warriors (30-28) are set to conclude their two-game road trip with a 4:30 p.m. PT tipoff against Memphis (21-35). Golden State enters the contest looking to rebound after a 113-109 loss Tuesday to the 17-win New Orleans Pelicans.

Green played 32 minutes in the loss, finishing with 11 points, seven rebounds, six assists and two blocks. He shot 5-for-11 from the field and connected on one 3-pointer while serving as a primary facilitator in the half court.

The 35-year-old has appeared in 48 games this season, averaging 8.5 points, 5.7 rebounds and 5.1 assists in 26.6 minutes per contest. He is shooting 41% from the field and 32% from beyond the arc. Green’s availability remains a key factor for a Warriors team hovering near .500 as it pushes for playoff positioning in the Western Conference.

Draymond Green’s status headlines Warriors’ injury report vs. Grizzlies

Golden State also ruled out De’Anthony Melton for Wednesday’s game with left knee injury management. Melton delivered a season-high 28 points in Tuesday’s loss, leading all scorers. He added four rebounds, three assists and one steal while shooting 8-for-20 from the field, 3-for-9 from 3-point range and 9-for-11 from the free-throw line across 28 minutes.

The 27-year-old guard is averaging a career-high 12.7 points, 2.9 rebounds, 2.3 assists and 1.6 steals per game over 31 appearances, including seven starts. He is shooting 42.4% from the field and 29.1% from 3-point distance.

The Warriors’ full injury report includes:

• Jimmy Butler III — Out (Right ACL; surgery)
• LJ Cryer — Out (G League – Two-Way)
• Seth Curry — Out (Left sciatic nerve irritation)
• Stephen Curry — Out (Right patellofemoral pain syndrome)
• Draymond Green — Questionable (Left low back injury management)
• De’Anthony Melton — Out (Left knee injury management)
• Kristaps Porzingis — Out (Illness)
• Nate Williams — Out (G League – Two-Way)

Following Wednesday’s contest, Golden State will return to San Francisco to host the Los Angeles Lakers (34-23) on Saturday at 5:30 p.m. PT in a nationally televised game on ABC.

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The Warriors fell 113-109 to the New Orleans Pelicans in ugly fashion. Though the close score indicates a highly contested, competitive affair, it speaks more to the Dubs’ tepid offensive performance in the first quarter, in which they shot only 8-of-25, that they ultimately could not overcome.

And while Moses Moody continued his consistent play with 24 points and five rebounds, and De’Anthony Melton exploded for 28 points in only 28 minutes, Pelicans star Zion Williamson proved unstoppable down the stretch, finishing with a team-high 26 points on 11-of-21 shooting. After the game, Steve Kerr gave his evaluation of the Dubs’ underwhelming performance.

“I don’t know if ‘down the stretch’ is what got us. It was the full 48 minutes,” Kerr said. “21 turnovers. We did not execute very well offensively. Spacing was bad. Transition, we had three potential layups in the first half. We didn’t run, we didn’t cut to the rim, we didn’t get to the corners. We just looked disjointed.”

Frustration felt palpable from the Warriors all night long as the bad basketball plagued them up and down the hardwood. Midway through the third quarter, the broadcast caught Quinten Post and Brandin Podziemski having a heated conversation as the two walked to the bench, with Draymond Green having to step between the two to prevent things from escalating.

And while the Warriors did have a chance to steal this game from the jaws of their own poor play, the offense unsurprisingly ran dry, and they could not bail themselves out of the hole they dug for themselves.

Offense remains a problem without their stars

It’s no surprise that the Warriors’ offense has struggled with consistency lately. With Stephen Curry in day-to-day purgatory with his inflamed runner’s knee, Jimmy Butler out for the season, and Kristaps Porzingis suffering from a bad, undisclosed illness, Golden State lacks an on-ball creator or engine to center the offense around.

Kerr has talked about needing “triggers” to get the defense scrambling, i.e., Curry’s gravity or Butler drawing double teams in the post. But without them, they don’t have that which leads to droughts like the ones they suffered against the Pelicans.

And sure, Melton can get penetration, and Moody can run around a screen off-ball, but across 48 minutes of a game, they need more. What they did versus Denver is certainly the height of what’s possible when everything’s humming. But ultimately, that requires kind of outing everything to run smoothly. That means no messy turnovers, no missed opportunities in transition.

It requires good ball movement and hitting open shots. And the Warriors didn’t do that in New Orleans.

“The game was right there for us, just couldn’t execute well enough,” Kerr said. “With the injuries we have, we have to play well to win. And I don’t think we played well tonight.”

Al Horford resting on the front end of the back-to-back certainly didn’t help, and they’ll get him back versus the Memphis Grizzlies. But help’s not on the way any time soon. Curry’s reevaluation won’t come until the end of the week, and knowing their tendency to lean conservative on returns from injury, there will likely be a ramp-up process before he comes back. Meanwhile, Porzingis may very well be confirming the Warriors’ worst fears with this latest health scare.

The Dubs will look to bounce back with a game in Memphis in less than 24 hours.

Other noteables

• To add insult to injury for the Dubs, Jonathan Kuminga looked pretty smooth in his Atlanta Hawks debut. 25 points, 7 rebounds, on 9/12 FGs against the tanking Washington Wizards. It’s only one game, and against a poor team at that, but the Kuminga era in Atlanta is off to a good start.
• Porzingis did not make the trip to the south, which rules him out for Memphis. It’s unknown what his illness is specifically. He has a history with postural orthostatic tachycardia syndrome (POTS) that the Warriors were aware of when they traded for him, but the Warriors have not confirmed if this current illness has something to do with that. Kerr said Sunday it was severe enough for Porzingis to not be able to leave his hotel room.
• The NBC Sports Bay Area has started adding live graphics to its broadcasts. Things like a grey circle hovering under whoever has the ball, names popping up whenever someone gets the ball, and a distance counter whenever someone shoots it from deep. Looks like NBA 2k and it’s driving many watchers up the wall (including me).

The post Warriors suffer ugly loss to Pelicans as offensive woes and injuries continue to plague them appeared first on ClutchPoints.

With a little over two and a half minutes left in the third quarter, a screening action saw the Pelicans switch, which left the smaller Brice McGowens defending Post in the post. Podziemski, however, had Derik Queen on him and thought that he could punish that mismatch instead. In the end, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr did not like what he was seeing and called a timeout.

The pause in the action gave Post time to express his frustration towards Podziemski for not giving him the ball in the post. The argument had gotten so heated to the point that Draymond Green had to step in as the peacemaker, separating the two and preventing them from engaging in a full-blown fight.

Quinten Post was mad that Brandin Podziemski didn’t pass him the ball in the post

Draymond Green had to separate them during a timeout
pic.twitter.com/aZRk51AqXm

— Fullcourtpass (@Fullcourtpass) February 25, 2026

The fundamental play to make was to hand the ball over to the big man for the easy two, but perhaps Podziemski was wary of throwing the ball into the post due to the possibility of a turnover. Be that as it may, it looked as though the Warriors bench did tell Podziemski that that was the play to make in that circumstance, and only time will tell if the third-year guard learns from this moment.

The Warriors are in danger

At this point, it might be safe to say that the Warriors are not going to be contending for a title this season and for the foreseeable future. Jimmy Butler will be out for a long time due to a torn ACL. Kristaps Porzingis is not, and never was in the first place, the answer, as he has considerable health issues of his own. And even Stephen Curry is nursing knee troubles.

The Warriors have been plucky amid all the absences of their key players, but to say that they’re not in danger would be a lie.

The post Warriors’ Brandin Podziemski, Quinten Post get into it in heated moment vs. Pelicans appeared first on ClutchPoints.

On January 31, 2025, Dejounte Murray suffered a torn right Achilles tendon in the Pelicans game against the Boston Celtics. Murray played just eight minutes and nine seconds before going down with the injury.

After missing 13 months with the Achilles tear and working hard to return, the Pelicans guard made his season debut and return from the injury on Tuesday night, when the Pelicans hosted the Golden State Warriors inside the Smoothie King Center.

In a tremendous show of respect, the Pelicans reorganized their starting lineup to mention Dejounte Murray last in the group as the crowd cheered him on.

https://x.com/RodWalkerNola/status/2026465486892834952

On the first play of the game, center DeAndre Jordan found Murray cutting from the left corner with a bounce pass. Murray made an acrobatic reverse layup, giving him his first basket back since the injury.

Dejounte Murray cuts backdoor for his first bucket in his return

This is his first game since January 31st 2025!

pic.twitter.com/51kXHZ6nBM

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 25, 2026

Dejounte Murray played five minutes in his first stint before checking out of the game to a nice ovation from Pelicans fans. Murray finished with four points on 2-of-3 shooting from the field.

Murray had been ramping up over the last few weeks, but appeared to have some of his athleticism back as soon as six months after the Achilles surgery. The Pelicans guard actually posted a video at the six-month mark of his recovery throwing down a reverse dunk with relative ease.

6 MONTHS AND THIS SH*T FEEL LIGHT!!! I Catch Back Up With Y’all In A Few!!! #DM5 pic.twitter.com/PuThC0u386

— Dejounte Murray (@DejounteMurray) August 20, 2025

Since becoming a full-time starter in the 2020 season, Dejounte Murray has averaged 18.3 points, 6.3 rebounds, 6.4 assists, and 1.7 steals per game while shooting 45.5 percent from the field. If Murray can get back to form quickly, it could make for either an intriguing part of of the Pelicans rebuild or a great trade piece for a team missing an athletic, do-it-all guard.

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Check our Sneakers news for more upcoming releases and breaking content!

Steph Curry first signed to Under Armour in 2013, becoming the face of their basketball line and one of the first big-name athletes to join. The two sides released eight standalone, name-bearing models until the creation of the subset Curry Brand in 2020. With Stephen Curry acting as President, he managed to sign other NBA talent like Spurs’ De’Aaron Fox and Heat’s Davion Mitchell.

Curry’s split with Under Armour

The Under Armour Basketball account on Instagram took the followers from the Curry Brand account following the NBA star’s departure from the brand

(via @SoleRetriever) pic.twitter.com/miOrsXIOy8

— The Sporting News (@sportingnews) February 19, 2026

During contract negotiations and an initial thought that Curry Brand would move away from Under Armour, Under Armour displaced all the Curry Brand social media followers to their main Under Armour page. The move has sent waves throughout the sneaker community as Curry continues to rock other brands during basketball activities. Fans have also taken notice and have come to the defense of their favorite NBA star.

Where will Stephen Curry sign next?

Under Armour

While there may be a rift between the two sides, it’s hard to walk away from a partnership that’s lasted almost as long as Curry’s entire career. In sneaker terms, Curry leaving Under Armour would be the equivalent to him leaving the Warriors, something fans don’t even want to think about at this point. Keeping all his assets in order and within Under Armour could help promote Curry Brand even more throughout the upcoming years.

Nike

There’s no question that most athletes would jump at the idea of joining the biggest sports brand in the world. Nike has a long history with the best to ever play the game like LeBron James, Kevin Durant, and Michael Jordan, so making Curry their fourth lifetime athlete would make sense. Furthermore, Curry shares a close relationship with WNBA star Sabrina Ionescu, who’s making history with her current Nike Sabrina signature sneaker line.

However, during their 2013 pitch to originally sign Curry, Nike made a massive blunder in mispronouncing “Stephen” and failed to prioritize him as a top athlete. Since Curry has been rocking with several Nike sneakers before and during recent NBA games, there could be a chance that he’s willing to look past the mistake and bring Curry Brand to unimaginable heights.

ANTA

The final brand, originally reported by Sole Retreiver to have made Curry’s final cut, is Chinese sportswear brand ANTA. Curry has been seen favoring recent ANTA sneakers during games thanks to their performance. However, Curry’s own “splash brother” Klay Thompson has been signed to ANTA since 2014 after leaving Nike himself, so he could be in Curry’s ear about the emerging brand.

Furthermore, Mavs’ Kyrie Irving serves as the Chief Creative Officer for ANTA and they recently just opened their first flagship location in the United States. In speaking with Sports Illustrated, Curry admits that he respects up-and-coming brands as he did so 13 years ago when joining Under Armour.

Curry is expected to make his decision in the coming weeks, the NBA offseason likely being the latest time frame for the announcement. Staying at Under Armour is the least likely outcome at this point and we’re all anxiously awaiting to see where Curry Brand sets its new roots.

The post Where will Stephen Curry sign after leaving Under Armour? Sneaker free agency down to 3 choices appeared first on ClutchPoints.

*Watch NBA games LIVE with fuboTV (free trial)*

Draymond Green injury status vs. Pelicans

Given Draymond Green is questionable on the injury report after missing Sunday’s game against the Nuggets, there’s a chance he’ll suit up for Tuesday’s matchup. Horford, who played nearly 30 minutes in Sunday’s win, could most likely sit out. Green and Horford are fixtures on the injury report these days, but we could be witnessing coach Steve Kerr stagger his aging bigs, both over 35, amid the Warriors’ extended injury list.

Perhaps Green is inspired by Kendrick Perkins’ recent criticism, which leads to a return against the Pelicans. Green hasn’t played since the Warriors’ 121-110 loss to the Boston Celtics. Still, when it comes to the question of whether Warriors’ Draymond Green will play tonight vs. the Pelicans, the answer is maybe.

Al Horford injury status vs. Pelicans

In a nine-point upset win against the Nuggets, Warriors veteran Al Horford turned back the clock with his 22-point performance. He finished 8-for-11 from the floor, including 6-for-7 from deep, with seven assists, three steals, and two blocks in his most impressive performance of the season.

Horford doesn’t play in back-to-backs, meaning if the Warriors were to play him Tuesday, he’ll sit for Wednesday’s matchup against the Nuggets, which is another reason why he’ll probably miss Tuesday’s game. When it comes to the question of whether Al Horford is playing tonight vs. the Pelicans, the answer is likely no.

Warriors injury report

Jimmy Butler III — Out — Right ACL; surgery

Seth Curry — Out — Left sciatic nerve; irritation

Stephen Curry — Out — Right patellofemoral;

Draymond Green — Questionable — Left low back; injury management

Al Horford — Questionable — Left toe; injury

De’Anthony Melton — Questionable — Left knee; injury management

Kristaps Porzingis — Out — General illness

Pelicans injury report

Yves Missi — Out — Left calf; strain

Trey Murphy III — Out — Right shoulder; contusion

Dejounte Murray — Available — Right Achilles; rupture

Micah Peavy — Out — Right great toe; sprain

The post Warriors’ Draymond Green, Al Horford on long injury report vs. Pelicans appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Curry has missed all of their games in February, leaving the Warriors without another star following the season-ending knee injury of Jimmy Butler.

Curry’s health has been a concern for the Warriors over the past few seasons, as the 37-year-old guard’s body is seemingly breaking down due to his heavy mileage. Retirement may not be too far for the two-time MVP.

Despite this, NBA insider Marc Spears claimed on ESPN’s “NBA Today” that Curry is still keen on suiting up again for Team USA in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

“Steph Curry is still interested in making his second Olympic appearance. He’d be 40 years old at that time, but look, he’s a shooter. He’s the greatest shooter of all time. Why would you not want that on your roster?” said Spears.

“He’s not yet out. Let’s just say that.”

Marc Spears: "Steph Curry is still interested to make his 2nd Olympic appearance. He's not out let's just say that" pic.twitter.com/cIqfLC0fSe

— Oh No He Didn't (@ohnohedidnt24) February 24, 2026

Curry finally made his Olympic debut in 2024 in Paris, helping Team USA win the gold medal, highlighted by his mind-blowing performance in the final against host country France.

Curry has often said he fully enjoyed the experience. He confirmed on the “Mind the Game” podcast of Team USA teammate LeBron James that he is not closing the door on playing anew in the Olympics, especially since it will be played on home soil.

If he indeed suits up in Los Angeles, Curry will banner a roster that might feature Minnesota Timberwolves’ Anthony Edwards, Detroit Pistons’ Cade Cunningham, Boston Celtics’ Jaylen Brown, and Dallas Mavericks’ Cooper Flagg, among others.

The post Marc Spears reveals Warriors’ Stephen Curry ‘still interested’ in 2028 Olympics appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Kerr has been the Warriors’ head coach since 2014, leading the franchise to four championships and six NBA Finals appearances throughout his stint. However, times have been tough since the last title run in 2022, failing to get past the second round and even missed the playoffs once.

Kerr hopes to compete for another championship with Golden State, which might feature an offseason move to sign James away from the Los Angeles Lakers. However, if the scenario fails to come to fruition, Simmons provided his outlook on what would happen to Kerr’s time with the Warriors.

” I think he (LeBron James) either stays in LA or he goes to Golden State… This is kind of tied to LeBron. If they don’t get LeBron, I think this is it for Steve Kerr. I have no inside info, but this would be the right kind of area for him to be like, I’ll take the year, I’ll do some media, I’ll figure out if I want to keep coaching. I’m calling it quits,” Simmons said at the 1:04:20 mark of his podcast.

What’s next for Steve Kerr, Warriors

Steve Kerr has achieved so much with the Warriors, creating the NBA’s most recent dynasty in the modern era. However, his time ending with the Warriors might be closer than he may realize, especially if the team can’t land LeBron James for next season.

Golden State has a 30-27 record on the season, holding the eighth spot in the Western Conference standings. They are above the Portland Trail Blazers and the Los Angeles Clippers while trailing the Phoenix Suns and the Minnesota Timberwolves.

The Warriors will look forward to their next matchup, being on the road. They face the New Orleans Pelicans as tip-off will take place on Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. ET.

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Recently, ESPN personality Kendrick Perkins raised eyebrows during his appearance on the Road Trippin’ podcast when he stated that the Warriors should throw in the towel on 2025-26 and shut Curry down for the rest of the season, with Draymond Green’s lack of production in a recent game against the Boston Celtics being a reason why.

Now, Green himself has responded to those comments on the Draymond Green Show, produced by Audacy.

“We played big fella, and we got them clips. So you know a bad game happens every now and then,” said Green. “…be careful listening to this stuff for the young kids out there that’s trying to make it, because it’s oftentimes a bunch of garbage… You know how it goes to have one bad game. I can promise you, Big Perk. I ain’t worried where you was at at the end of yours.”

Indeed, Perkins put up many a bad game toward the end of his playing career. Meanwhile, Green has seen a steady dip in production over the last few seasons, but remains one of the smartest players in the game today, and the anchor of the Warriors’ defense.

At this point, it’s hard to envision the Warriors competing for anything meaningful this season even if Curry does come back fully healthy, as Jimmy Butler is already out for the rest of the season, and trade acquisition Kristaps Porzingis is already dealing with an illness.

However, at this point, it doesn’t seem that the Warriors are seriously considering following Perkins’ advice and shutting down their franchise leader.

The post Warriors’ Draymond Green fires back at Kendrick Perkins over recent criticism appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Curry is halfway through the 17th season of his remarkable career. Winning four titles in that span, Curry hopes to compete for a fifth ring as he progresses through the latter stages of his time in the league.

Golden State has struggled to get to the mountaintop since its last title in 2022. Even though the franchise has made moves this season to keep the roster in playoff contention, former player and current NBA analyst Kendrick Perkins made a clear request to the organization about Curry’s availability this season.

“Shut Steph down. Let those guys play it out. See what guys fit. Right now I would let the rest of the Warriors team outside of Steph play this season out and audition to see if they want to be here. How do you want to be here? By performing at a high level,” Perkins said at the 12:21 mark of the Road Trippin podcast.

“This off season is probably one of the most important off seasons of this franchise, since Steph has been a part of the franchise. Because they need to go out. Mike Dunleavy has to do his damn job and make sure he goes and get the pieces so that Steph has a legitimate shot coming into next year to compete for an NBA title.”

What lies ahead for Stephen Curry, Warriors

Stephen Curry still has plenty of gas in the tank to make huge performances in his career. The Warriors need to maximize his remaining years before he calls it a career.

Curry remains elite in Year 17 as Golden State’s top star. Throughout 39 games, he is averaging 27.2 points, 4.8 assists and 3.5 rebounds per game.

Golden State has a 30-27 record on the season, holding the eighth spot in the Western Conference standings. They are above the Los Angeles Clippers and the Portland Trail Blazers while trailing the Phoenix Suns and the Los Angeles Lakers.

Following Sunday’s upset win over the Denver Nuggets, the Warriors will look forward to their next matchup. They are on the road when they face the New Orleans Pelicans on Feb. 24 at 8 p.m. ET.

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No Stephen Curry again as he continues to heal his runner’s knee. Kristaps Porzingis ruled out with an undisclosed illness. Draymond Green was a late scratch with “left lower back soreness,” and Jimmy Butler is obviously out for the season. And it didn’t really matter, at least for this game.

In their absences, Podizemski collected 18 points, 15 rebounds, and nine assists, closing out the Nuggets with 15 fourth-quarter points without a single miss.

“Phenomenal,” Steve Kerr said of Podziemski’s fourth quarter. “I think he had eight rebounds in the quarter. Hit a couple big shots. He was brilliant, and we needed it… It’s been up and down for [him], for sure. But our season has been up and down as a whole, and sometimes a team’s struggles impact the individuals. But we know what he can do. For the last couple of years, he’s been one of our highest plus-minus players. He’s very versatile player.

Next to Podziemski, Moody led the team with 23 points, along with 7 rebounds and five assists. Another steady game for a player who’s become the team’s safety blanket, especially without their stars.

“Moses has been brilliant for six weeks,” Kerr said. He’s shooting the lights out– the confidence. He’s maybe been our most consistent performer. His on-ball defense– he’s top of the league against pick and roll. And he’s such a great teammate. He’s there for you every night the way he works. He’s so poised. It’s really fun to watch Moses blossom and have such a good season.”

The two remaining first-round draft picks of the young core did what’s alluded the Warriors in the later years of the Curry dynasty. They gave Golden State that youth and that juice that’s been sorely lacking– they looked like the pieces that could give this purgatory-doomed Warriors team a real chance when Curry inevitably returns.

Podz and Moody’s growth

For Podizemski in particular, it’s been a rocky season thus far. He’s struggled with on-court shortcomings as well as the vitriol from a large portion of the fanbase– in a season where he’s eligible for an extension come the summer. But Kerr maintained his belief in the young combo guard, pointing to games like this as examples for what he and the staff have been trying to hammer home.

“He’s a really confident guy. He wants the ball, he wants the big shot, but like every player, he needs the rhythm,” Kerr said. “He needs the flow of the game, and he can help himself. It’s one of the things we’re trying to teach him. He can help himself by actually getting off the ball earlier in a possession and then getting it back. And at times he wants to make the play from the outset, and that’s a lot to do. So he’s still learning and growing, but that was a fantastic night.”

As for Moody, who, as Kerr pointed out, has averaged 14.4 points on 45.7% shooting over the last six weeks, it’s been about simplifying the game, in his words.

“I had a conversation with coach [Kerr] yesterday,” Moody recounted. “And I was asking him, with Steph being gone, do you need me to do anything else? Does my role change at all? And he was saying, that’s one of his favorite things about me.Just that the composure and the being solid, and I’ve been really solid for a long time. And I heard that, and that’s the same thing that I’ve been thinking. But it’s cool to have somebody else say it too, what you are, what’s been in your head.”

It’s a mindset Moody acknowledged he had to grow into. Growing up in Little Rock, Arkansas, Moody’s game never got picked apart because he was the best player in the state. Things changed in the NBA and it forced him to adapt.

“I don’t take everything everybody says, but finding things that make sense, and a lot of those things fall in that lane to be able to make offense flow.”

Injury updates for the Warriors

Golden State had to rally with their two big names in the frontcourt ruled out the day of the game.

Kerr told reporters that Porzingis was too sick to leave his hotel room and spent the game in bed trying to recover. But the Dubs coach did not disclose precisely what was ailing Porzingis specifically. With his chronic health bouts with POTS (Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome), speculation is certainly bound to wander in that direction.

But that was the risk the Warriors were willing to take with the big man. They understood his health history and have said they made the trade with full confidence in his medicals. Whether this illness lingers through the week, Kerr could not say, as the coach didn’t give much of an answer as to the specifics of his condition.

As for Green, Kerr and the team hope he can be available for the upcoming road trip. Kerr told reporters that Green’s lower back tightened up during warmups, so they decided to forgo making him play through the pain and discomfort. But unlike in years past, Green’s absence wasn’t nearly as debilitating to due to the decline in his game. His offense is a non-factor, and his defense comes and goes with the tides.

“We know too that as you get older, it’s tougher to do it every night,” Kerr acknowledged pre-game. “In his prime, you could count on him every single night you get older. It just doesn’t work that way. There’s going to be nights where shots go in. There’s nights where they don’t. But the thing that’s consistent with Draymond is he’s there for us every night. The level of defensive intensity, but also just his acumen, is so helpful for us.”

It’s been a tough transition for both Green and the Warriors, especially given the trade rumors he was in during the Giannis Antetokounmpo sweepstakes. But the belief remains in him organizationally. From Steve Kerr all the way up to Joe Lacob.

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Jamal Murray is on the injury report alongside several Nuggets rotation players, with the star guard initially listed as questionable due to a hamstring issue, per the official injury report. Murray has since been upgraded to available, but Denver will continue to be without standouts Aaron Gordon and Peyton Watson.

However, the Golden State Warriors have major worries of their own, with Stephen Curry confirmed to be out alongside Jimmy Butler and Kristaps Porzingis.

Jamal Murray injury status vs. Warriors

Murray was listed as questionable until right before tip-off, so his situation will be something to monitor. The first-time All-Star did play on both ends of a recent back-to-back coming out of the All-Star break.

Murray is averaging 25.7 points, 7.6 assists, and 4.5 rebounds while posting an elite 61.5 true shooting percentage. His importance has grown even further during stretches without Nikola Jokic, where Murray has elevated his production to 27.8 points and 8.3 assists across 12 games.

Denver enters the game at 36-21 and the No. 3 seed with a strong 21-10 road record, while Golden State sits 29-27 and has struggled without Stephen Curry.

Nuggets injury report

Jamal Murray: Available (hamstring)

Aaron Gordon: Out (hamstring)

Peyton Watson: Out (hamstring)

Jalen Pickett: Out (knee soreness)

Tamar Bates: Out (foot surgery)

Warriors injury report

Stephen Curry: Out (right knee bone bruise / patella-femoral pain syndrome)

Jimmy Butler III: Out (ACL tear — season-ending)

Seth Curry: Out (injury management)

Nate Williams: Out (injury)

Malevy Leons: Out (injury)

LJ Cryer: Out (injury)

Kristaps Porzingis: Out (illness)

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However, Porzingis has since been ruled out due to a “general illness.” Here’s everything we know about what’s going on with Porzingis.

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Kristaps Porzingis injury status vs. Nuggets

Porzingis was fully expecting to play Sunday, but ESPN’s Anthony Slater reports the big man got sick overnight. Warriors head coach Steve Kerr said he “got a text this morning that Kristaps Porzingis woke up pretty sick and won’t even be at the arena.” Kerr added it’s unclear what Porzingis’ status will be for the upcoming two-game road trip.

Porzingis has gone through transition and careful workload management during the 2025-26 campaign. He began the season with the Atlanta Hawks, appearing in 17 games and averaging 17.1 points, 5.1 rebounds, and 1.3 blocks. That was before a left Achilles issue and illness sidelined him through early January and into the All-Star break.

He was acquired by Golden State at the Feb. 5 trade deadline in a deal that sent Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield to Atlanta. Porzingis debuted Feb. 19 against Boston, tallying 12 points and a block in 17 minutes. Golden State was hoping to bump up his minutes against Denver.

Sunday’s matchup carries weight. The Warriors (29-27), currently eighth in the West, aim to halt a two-game skid without Curry, Jimmy Butler (ACL surgery) and now Porzingis as well. The Nuggets (36-21) sit third in the conference behind MVP candidate Nikola Jokic. They seek to build momentum despite injury concerns of their own. The season series is tied 1-1.

So, when it comes to the question of if Kristaps Porzingis is playing tonight vs. the Nuggets, the answer is no. And given his unique bouts with illness over the last couple years, this situation is worth monitoring and brings about some real concern.

Warriors injury report

• Kirstaps Porzingis: Out (Left Achilles; Injury Management)
• Stephen Curry: Out (Right Patellofemoral; Pain Syndrome)
• Seth Curry: Out (Left Sciatic Nerve; Irritation)
• Jimmy Butler III: Out (Right ACL; Surgery)
• LJ Cryer: Out (G League – Two-Way)
• Malevy Leons: Out (G League – Two-Way)
• Nate Williams: Out (G League – Two-Way)

Nuggets injury report

• Jamal Murray: Questionable (Right Hamstring; Tightness)
• Aaron Gordon: Out (Right Hamstring; Strain)
• Tamar Bates: Out (Left Foot; Surgery)
• Jalen Pickett: Out (Right Knee; Soreness)
• Peyton Watson: Out (Right Hamstring; Strain)

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Son of Rick Celebrini, the Golden State’s heralded Vice President of Player Health and Performance, 19-year-old Macklin has risen to superstar status both in the NHL for the revamped San Jose Sharks and Team Canada at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. It’s a miraculous ascension that has not only the hockey world in a frenzy but also the entire Warriors organization cheering him on.

Ahead of Celebrini and Team Canada’s highly anticipated gold medal match with Team USA, Dubs coach Steve Kerr talked at length about the internal excitement for the kid they used to watch shoot hoops after practice with his dad and some of the players.

“It’s been so fun,” Kerr said. “Yesterday, at the film session, we had half the team watching the final two minutes of the game, because it was 2-2. It was 10 o’clock, and we’re supposed to be starting film, and we’re like, ‘Nope, we’re gonna watch to see what happens.'”

What happened was Canada advancing past Finland in the final minute of the third period, and Celebrini completing a team-high 25:53 TOI – an unbelievable achievement for a player that young.

But before becoming the youngest-ever NHL player on Canada’s men’s Olympic team, when he wasn’t training on the ice, Celebrini was on the hardwood. Kerr recounted the numerous occasions when Macklin and his brothers would play 2-on-2 full court in the Dubs’ facilities after practice. You read that right, 2-on-2, full court, with his mother, Robin, hopping in as the fourth player to make for an even split.

“You want to see an athletic family in action,” Kerr laughed. “It’s one of the fun parts of the job, seeing the families be a part of it… It’s one of the best parts of the job. When we finish games, every game, win or lose, we open up the doors to the family room, and the kids come flooding in, and it’s just awesome.

“I sit up in my office, I have a beer, and I look down, and I see these little pickup games happening with our players’ kids and coaches’ kids. People running around and players coming out, hugging their kids like it’s this is a special profession, you know, to be able to share with your kids and they, you know, memories for a lifetime, but also good perspective for everybody.”

Whether Kerr and the Warriors were able to see early hints at what Celebrini would become, it’s up for debate. For Moses Moody, who recounted the time the two spent rehabbing their individual injuries over the summer, he always knew Celebrini was destined for greatness.

“You know that trend that was going around with LeBron? Saying how he knew from the beginning?” Moody grinned. “Yeah, back when I first got here, I seen him and he had that look in his eye! And I said he’s going to be– nah, I’m kidding.”

Though Moody didn’t have the prescient vision LeBron James is blessed with when it came to Macklin, he is putting his chips in early on his youngest brother, RJ.

“Really, his little brother, the youngest brother. I talked to him for a while, and he really, he really does have this like this silent confidence and competitiveness, composure. I’m saying it beforehand with that one. I see something; he got a look in his eye. But Mack too– he’s got that silent confidence too… being around him, he doesn’t overdo it. But you can tell he’s working. He’s precise in conversation, you can, you can just tell when somebody’s a thinker, more than a talker type of guy.”

In that vein, Kerr likened Celebrini’s maturity and leadership to another superstar– Stephen Curry. The intangibles you can’t teach Kerr described. Where those traits can take him, the sky’s the limit. But if you ask Gary Payton II, he believes Celebrini can etch his name among the greats.

“I feel like he’s going to end up being one of those, when it’s all said and done, like Wayne, Sid, Alex, Mack,” Payton said. “It’s exciting to see it from the start. [We’ll] see where it goes, and it’s going pretty, pretty damn good right now… I’m rooting for Mack for sure.”

Even with the unbelievable chance to stick it to Team USA tomorrow on the global stage, Celebrini’s just getting started. But for a Warriors organization that got to see one of their own literally grow up into the star everyone else sees today, it’s a special, special thing.

“Everybody’s engaged, especially the guys who’ve been here for a while, who know Rick so well, and Macklin and the family,” Kerr said. “So it’s pretty cool to see it all develop. And to see the pride in Rick’s eyes and hearing it in his voice, it’s wonderful.”

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“It’s not going the way that I wanted it to,” Curry admitted via NBC Sports Authentic. The two-time MVP is dealing with patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly known as “runner’s knee.” While a second MRI on Wednesday night confirmed there is no structural damage, the lingering soreness and swelling have refused to subside. Curry noted that while he is “headed in the right direction,” the priority remains being healthy for the postseason rather than rushing back for February matchups.

Steph Curry shares the latest update on his knee injury and recovery:

“Feeling good. I mean, it’s not going the way that I wanted it to, but I think we’re in the right direction of trying to get back out there as fast as possible. The goal is to be healthy come playoff time and… pic.twitter.com/LpXdWwryol

— aly ✶ (@jinthirty) February 21, 2026

The timing couldn’t be worse for Golden State. The team is already reeling from the loss of Jimmy Butler, who is out for the season following ACL surgery. This latest delay also carries a massive personal sting for Curry: by missing his 18th game of the season against the Boston Celtics on Thursday, he officially became ineligible for All-NBA and MVP honors under the league’s 65-game rule.

On the court, the shorthanded Warriors have been scrappy but inconsistent. They managed a gritty 101-97 comeback win against the Phoenix Suns recently, fueled by a career-high 20 points from Pat Spencer and 18 points from Gui Santos. However, the lack of late-game shot creation was evident as they relied on a 25-7 closing run to escape. De’Anthony Melton chipped in 17 points, but the offense clearly misses the “gravity” only Curry provides.

The Warriors, currently 29-27 and sitting in eighth place in the West, will re-evaluate Curry in 10 days. For now, the “Dub Nation” faithful will have to hold their breath and hope the supporting cast can keep the ship afloat until No. 30 is cleared for takeoff.

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Perkins shared his stance during Friday’s broadcast of First Take, arguing that Golden State’s inability to make a major roster upgrade has effectively ended its title aspirations.

“The days of Steph Curry actually having a shot of winning another championship in Golden State, those days are over. The only hope that he had was for them to be aggressive and try to go get Giannis Antetokounmpo and from my understanding the Bucks wanted no parts in what they were trying to offer. Because I heard they were trying to throw Draymond Green in the deal which probably blew up the whole damn deal. Milwaukee probably said we’re good for those type of dollars.”

Perkins continued by questioning the team’s current roster construction and future flexibility.

“So when you think about where they are and what’s going to be on the market for them to go and get – we don’t know with Jimmy Butler and what his age is going to come back looking like for us off an ACL injury. Draymond Green is done when it comes down to actually being a guy that can give you actual production, especially with the dollars that he’s making. He’s not delivering… It’s a damn shame because Steph Curry is playing at an all-time high.”

“The days of Steph Curry actually having a shot of winning another championship in Golden State, those days are over.”

– Kendrick Perkins

(via @FirstTake)
pic.twitter.com/WSPwaCbNTz

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 20, 2026

Kendrick Perkins ties Warriors’ title concerns to injuries, West competition

Perkins later emphasized the competitive landscape within the Western Conference.

“What guys [are] going to be free that you can get to pair along with Steph that’s actually going to move the needle? Because I’m a say this: SGA, he ain’t going nowhere, Anthony Edwards not going nowhere, Wemby, Jokic, all of these guys, Luka, are still in the Western Conference. So, not being able to go get Giannis and watching the production that’s around him right now with the pieces that he’s got, they are dead birds tall grass. Those days are over for Steph winning a championship in Golden State.”

Golden State’s roster questions have intensified following Jimmy Butler III’s torn ACL suffered last month, an injury that clouded the team’s short-term outlook. Butler had been viewed internally as a key veteran piece capable of providing postseason experience and two-way impact upon his return next season.

Curry, 37, continues to produce at a high level despite the team’s uneven results. He is averaging 27.2 points, 4.8 assists, 3.5 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 46.8% from the field and 39.1% from three across 39 appearances. However, Curry has been sidelined since Jan. 30 after suffering a persistent right knee injury during a 131-124 loss to the Detroit Pistons. The Warriors announced he will be re-evaluated in 10 days.

At the trade deadline, Golden State made a notable move by acquiring Kristaps Porzingis from the Atlanta Hawks in exchange for Jonathan Kuminga and Buddy Hield, signaling a willingness to recalibrate the roster. Even with the addition, the Warriors remain eighth in the Western Conference standings.

Golden State will conclude its four-game homestand Sunday afternoon against the Denver Nuggets (35-21) at 12:30 p.m. PT on ABC. Whether Perkins’ declaration proves premature or prophetic will depend on how the retooled roster responds once Curry returns and the postseason picture crystallizes.

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In the trade, Golden State also traded Buddy Hield and received Kristaps Porzingis in return, marking the team’s big trade to hopefully boost them for a playoff push. Lacob would speak on the Kuminga experiment, as his perspective is interesting since he’d been known to be a huge proponent for the young player, saying that it was “not hard” to agree to deal the 23-year-old.

“Everyone assumes a lot about that,” Lacob said, according to The San Francisco Standard. “Look, I liked him as a player, I like him as a person. … And at times, he showed a lot of potential for us. Just never quite really worked entirely. And he got injured at inopportune times.”

“I think we all knew we had to do something. But we weren’t going to give him away, either,” Kuminga continued. “Because he is a talent, and a lot of people think that, too. It just worked out — we got something that we thought was worth doing. Otherwise, we would’ve kept him.”

Warriors’ Joe Lacob on the Jonathan Kuminga experiment not working

While the Warriors had been in Giannis Antetokounmpo talks as well, the trade with Kuminga and Porzingis was their main deal of the deadline. Kuminga had been with Golden State for five seasons, as Lacob spoke about how the relationship “didn’t work.”

“I did like him. I like all our players. Otherwise, we wouldn’t be acquiring them if we didn’t all like them. But you know, it just didn’t work. It looked like it was going to work. It was off and on a lot,” Lacob said.

The Warriors are looking to improve as they have a 29-27 record, putting them eighth in the West with their next game on Sunday against the Denver Nuggets.

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While discussing the Warriors’ situation this season, Lacob made it clear that his team is not attempting to tank whatsoever, according to Tim Kawakami of the San Francisco Standard. He acknowledged Ishbia’s comments and firmly declared that Golden State is not an organization that will ever tank under his ownership.

“I saw where another owner came out today and spoke on [tanking], Mat Ishbia,” said Lacob. “I think, you know, it is not in my DNA, nor in this organization’s DNA, to do that… It’s not a good look. This is sports. We’re supposed to play to win. And that’s just not a way I would be comfortable, ever, trying to improve our team.”

Joe Lacob is a believer in the idea that his team, along with others in the league, should be competing their best for the fans who pay tickets to come watch their games and buy their merchandise. Overall, he wants to put the best product on the court, even if the club is experiencing some issues, like the Jimmy Butler injury, for example.

“Look, this season matters to the fans who bought tickets for this year,” Lacob said. “Hopefully, they’ll be our fans next year as well, obviously. I think you should always be trying to win and do the best you can. We’ve been dealt a couple of tough cards here right now. And our expectations probably shouldn’t be as high as they were. I thought, with Jimmy, since we acquired him, we were the fourth best record in the league, I think.”

Butler is out for the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign due to a torn ACL injury. Once he was ruled out, the Warriors had every excuse to go all-in on tanking this season. Instead, the front office traded for Kristaps Porzingis, giving the roster a huge boost in the front court, which could ultimately lead to massive success if it pays off.

We’ll see how it plays out, though, as the Warriors are without Stephen Curry for the time being due to a knee injury of his own. Curry is expected to eventually return, but he will miss at least the next four games after having already missed Thursday’s 121-110 loss to the Boston Celtics.

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According to reports from ClutchPoints’ NBA insider Brett Siegel and ESPN’s Golden State beat reporter Anthony Slater, star Draymond Green had been involved in talks for Antetokounmpo. However, general manager Mike Dunleavy would say that Green was never offered, with Lacob doubling down on that assumption, saying “he was never discussed in a trade.”

“Mike was 100% correct what he said,” Lacob said, via The San Francisco Standard. “But the truth is, the way these things are, you don’t just easily banter around names unless you’re getting serious. We never really got engagement on some of the big deals to the point where you get into specific names. People can look at the roster, and they can make assumptions about who might or might not have to go if you’ve got a certain person.”

Warriors’ Joe Lacob expresses how Draymond Green was not ‘shopped’

While the Warriors are hoping for a deep playoff push, there’s no doubt that the team is at a disadvantage with Jimmy Butler suffering a season-ending injury earlier and Stephen Curry’s continued absence. Green has been a crucial piece in Golden State’s dynasty for many seasons, but the reporting had been that his name had been mentioned due to his salary making sense in a potential deal, but Lacob would express how “he was never shopped in any way.”

“He’s a core person in our franchise. You don’t trade a Draymond Green simply or easily,” Lacob said. “You do it if you have to, and you’re getting tremendous value, and you’re improving your team. Even Draymond has said he understands that. You have to look at these things. But his name was never specifically discussed with another team. And that’s the truth.”

At any rate, it remains to be seen if the Warriors continue the Antetokounmpo pursuit in the offseason and if Green will be involved then.

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Horford’s decision to join Golden State, his fifth different organization, came as a surprise to many, especially those in Boston.

He had been the veteran leader of the Celtics over the years, and Horford played a pivotal role in the team’s success both during and before their championship run. Although leaving Boston was obviously a tough decision for Horford and his family, he felt as if it was time to move on and finish his career elsewhere.

As for the reason why this was Horford’s decision, the Warriors’ big man shed some light on the subject for the first time since making his decision to join Golden State over the summer. However, the exact reason as to why Horford left, that’s something that is still up in the air.

“The decision, it’s something that’s deeper than just the basketball stuff. And it’s something that at some point I’ll share with people, but for me, it felt like it was the time for me to go elsewhere,” Horford told reporters in the Warriors’ locker room, via CLNS’ Bobby Manning. “As far as the end of my career, I don’t know. I always keep that open, and it would definitely be a privilege to do that (return to Boston).

“I’m just focused on trying to finish out this year.”

The Celtics had made it a point of emphasis to cut salary in the offseason, which is why they traded Kristaps Porzingis to the Atlanta Hawks and Jrue Holiday to the Portland Trail Blazers over the summer. This philosophy continued at the trade deadline, as the Celtics went from being a second-apron team over the summer to moving below the luxury tax at the deadline.

Whether or not money played a factor in Horford leaving Boston is unknown, but his tone and reasoning for departure sure sound like there was something going on behind the scenes that bothered the veteran. Although he would not shut the door on a potential return to finish his career with the Celtics, Horford made it clear that his decision was impacted by something “deeper than basketball.”

In his first game against the Celtics since signing with the Warriors, Horford recorded five points, eight rebounds, and four assists in 28 minutes off the bench. The Celtics went on to defeat the Warriors 121-110 on Thursday night.

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Given the rust inherent from weeks of rehabbing an injury like Achilles tendinitis and difficulties of integrating a player midseason, the big man was bound to need a runway to get back to the level they envisioned from him when they decided to make the trade with the Atlanta Hawks.

“Far from being in perfect shape, but first game back after a while, getting some energy back, feeling good,” Porzingis said. “As the game went on, just felt better and better. And I think this is a good, like, first step to keep building.”

As Porzingis described, it was a shaky Bay Area debut for the big man in the Warriors’ 121-110 loss to his old team in the Boston Celtics. Porzingis finished with 12 points on 5-of-9 shooting in a limited 17 minutes. The Celtics blitzed Golden State with a 17-2 run as soon as the center entered the game, effectively shutting the door on the game in just the second quarter.

After the game, Steve Kerr talked about what stood out to him in Porzingis’s highly anticipated debut.

“First game with a new team, it’s always tricky,” Kerr said postgame. “You don’t really know your teammates, you don’t really have a feel for what’s happening. But I thought just from the first half to the second half, he just looked more comfortable and settled in.”

In that run, Porzingis looked burdened by various factors. The reintroduction to the speed of a live NBA game plagued his quick decision-making. Confusion snuck up on his face in misaligned defensive assignments. And while he had a good week of rehab and reintegration with the Warriors, Porzingis looked heavy on his feet. All things the big man was highly aware of.

“I always stay, critical of myself,” Porzingis said. “Honestly, like, I want to get in the perfect shape where I can go and not be a half step late, you know? Just be on time. Be quick, and be quick on my feet. And I mean, shot wasn’t perfect. Couple shots were a bit flat. These are things that’s just gonna be a little bit of time to catch a good rhythm.”

Silver linings for Warriors, Kristaps Porzingis?

Things came around in the second half when garbage time set in. Porzingis found his groove on offense, commanding double teams in the post, beating down mismatches when they left him in single coverage, and spotting up from the top of the arc for some triples. Enough flashes to not panic about his debut, but also understand that his road back to the Porzingis who single-handedly won Boston Game 1 in the finals will be a work in progress.

“As the game went on, it felt better and better,” Porzingis expressed. “I think this is a first step to keep building. Obviously, lower minutes, had some opportunities, a couple of turnovers. I think it’s just a matter of time to get into a better rhythm from this point on. But good first game.”

Still, Porzingis’s debut feels a bit underwhelming in the context of where Golden State is at right now.

Stephen Curry will remain sidelined for presumably the next five games due to the patellofemoral pain syndrome/bone bruise in his knee. Jimmy Butler is done for the season after undergoing ACL reconstructive surgery earlier this month. With little chance to contend even if Curry returns, the Warriors’ 2025-26 season is at a tipping point, with no safety net to catch them if they fall.

They’ve won too many games to tank and lost too much talent to contend. NBA purgatory.

Projecting Golden State moving forward

And sure, it may have been overly optimistic and unreasonable to expect Porzingis to be the magical defibrillator that could reset their heartbeat. But that’s what the trade has been painted as. In his media availability after the trade deadline, general manager Mike Dunleavy likened the trade as “similar” to the Butler one they made last season.

That was a move that undeniably saved their season from destitution. But given where Golden State’s at, with Curry in perpetual day-to-day injury status, this doesn’t feel like the season-saving Butler trade, even if Porzingis can get back to the peak of his powers.

Instead, just based on one game, it feels like a trade that kicks the championship aspirations down the road. They’ve brought in talent to resign in the summer. They’ve kept their chips for a potential disgruntled superstar. And they maintained their cap flexibility. Sure, things can change in the next 26 games. The Warriors could go on a run, Porzingis can look like his prime unicorn self, and they can get Curry back in time for the stretch run.

But that can only take them so far– a fiesty out in the first round, best-case scenario, a depressing play-in elimination, worst-case scenario. Evaluation is where these next 26 games feel like they are headed. Who is an asset moving forward, and who is expendable? Who will help extend Curry’s window, and who is trade bait for an all-in move? Kerr and the Warriors maintain they want to remain competitive, but the clock is ticking on this season. That is, if midnight hasn’t already struck.

“We’ve got to learn to play without Jimmy and Steph both,” Kerr expressed. “And that means bringing the juice, bringing the energy, finding a little bit of swagger without those guys. And it’s not easy, but we have to do it. We have to find a way.”

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The Warriors are looking to hold down the fort as Curry is still sidelined with a knee injury. While his MRI revealed no structural damage, the two-time MVP will remain out and will be re-evaluated in 10 days, according to the Warriors.

The Warriors are clinging to the eighth spot in the team standings with a 29-27 record after losing to the Boston Celtics on Thursday.

Jimmy Butler is out for the remainder of the season due to a knee injury, while Kristaps Porzingis is still looking to adjust to the team after being acquired at the trade deadline from the Atlanta Hawks.

The 37-year-old Curry, however, has his full faith in the Warriors.

“This has been such a unique year, but as long as we can find our way into a playoff series, we feel like we are a tough out for anybody at the top of the West,” said Curry in an interview with ESPN.

“With Porzingis here, hopefully, he’s healthy and able to be out there consistently because we know what he’s capable of doing.”

The 30-year-old Porzingis made his debut for the Warriors against the Celtics, tallying 12 points on 5-of-9 shooting in 17 minutes off the bench.

The oft-injured star, who is coming off a long illness, can be the interior threat that Golden State has long been pining for. He has also proven to be a dependable rim protector.

The Warriors still have a chance to avoid the Play-In Tournament, but they need an extra sense of urgency to string together more victories even without Curry.

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Kristaps Porzingis made his Golden State debut on Thursday.

Upon checking into the game and being announced over the PA, Porzingis received an ovation from the home Warriors crowd.

Kristaps Porzingis checks in for the first time with the Warriors

(via @kenzofuku) pic.twitter.com/7QVLufl6Ym

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 20, 2026

The Warriors traded with the Atlanta Hawks for Porzingis ahead of the NBA trade deadline. It was an interesting move, especially considering Golden State’s positioning in the stacked Western Conference. Curry’s knee injury sustained after that certainly has made the move look a bit worse.

Nevertheless, the big man from Latvia is sure to make a positive impact.

Thursday night, the Warriors hosted the Celtics team that Porzingis won his lone championship with. Boston won the NBA title two seasons ago, with Porzingis making a big impact, despite missing time via injury.

Injuries have wreaked havoc throughout his career. The 10-year veteran has only played 18 games this season, having missed time for several reasons. He has missed between 16 and 39 games in each of the last nine seasons of his career.

But Warriors coach Steve Kerr is highly optimistic that Porzingis will be able to make a solid contribution the rest of the season. Unfortunately for the Dubs, the Celtics are getting the best of Golden State.

Boston jumped out to a 23-point halftime lead, as of this writing. Porzingis has five points in seven minutes played.

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The Warriors’ two timeline gambit has not worked. James Wiseman was a bust. Jonathan Kuminga has not met expectations. Moses Moody is a role player, a quality one, but not a star who can take over the team. Jordan Poole flamed out and irked one of the franchise’s pillars in Draymond Green. And now, the Dubs are stuck with a middling and aging roster that is about to have their work cut out for them in the gauntlet that is the Western Conference.

Credit must go where credit is due; the Warriors are not throwing in the towel just yet. They traded for Kristaps Porzingis in a deal that saw them send Kuminga and Buddy Hield to the Atlanta Hawks, taking on the risk that Porzingis’ talent is worth betting on despite his season-long battle against POTS.

This trade created a roster spot for the Warriors, although they did already fill one of their open roster spots by converting Pat Spencer’s contract into a standard deal, a move that was worth doing considering how important Spencer has been in covering for the team’s injury problems.

The Dubs created another roster spot when they traded Trayce Jackson-Davis to the Toronto Raptors for a second-round pick. With that in mind, the Warriors may have another move left to pull off to beef up for the stretch run that lies ahead.

Warriors to scour the buyout market?

Before diving into potential targets the Warriors could set their sights towards to fill their open roster spot, their financial situation must be taken into account. At present, the Warriors have a total of $205.2 million allotted for their player payroll, which has them above the tax apron. They are a repeater tax-paying team, which would only serve to make their luxury tax penalties that much more punitive.

This also reduces their flexibility on the buyout market. The Warriors cannot sign any player on the buyout market whose contract this season was worth at least $14.1 million (equivalent to the non-taxpayer MLE) due to them being above the first apron. There aren’t too many buyout candidates making that much money anyway so it’s not like that would be a huge factor for the Dubs moving forward.

The Dubs do not need help at the guard positions. Beyond Stephen Curry, the Warriors have the following to play minutes at the one and the two: Podziemski, De’Anthony Melton, Spencer, Gary Payton II, and Will Richard. Seth Curry could also be a factor once he returns from injury.

If anything, the Warriors need help on the wing. Butler’s injury and Kuminga’s departure has depleted the Dubs’ depth at the position even further, thrusting Gui Santos into a starter role. Santos has been more than solid and it looks as though he’s established himself as a quality role player at the very least, but their depth on the wing leaves a lot to be desired.

The Warriors were rumored to be interested in Lonzo Ball, but Ball has looked washed up all season long, and while he can play up a position, he doesn’t necessarily provide anything that much different from the liked of Payton or Melton. He could be a play initiator, and his court vision is still top-notch, but the Dubs may be best served reserving their open roster spot for someone else.

The current buyout market doesn’t inspire much confidence. Among those who’ve been waived already, someone like Chris Boucher makes the most sense. Boucher is also a former Warriors player, so that could count for something.

Even then, Boucher didn’t play well enough to earn minutes for the Boston Celtics despite their wide-open position battle at center, and it’s not like the Dubs need help at the big man spots considering that they have Green, Al Horford, Quinten Post, and now Porzingis to fill in all of the minutes at the five.

Among players who could conceivably be bought out, someone like Kyle Anderson or Nicolas Batum makes the most sense for the Dubs, although it’s not quite clear if both of them would receive the go-signal from their teams to leave.

The Dubs could bring back a familiar face

Batum is not likely to leave the Los Angeles Clippers. The veteran credits the team for saving his career back in 2020, and he is clearly in love with the franchise. Moreover, the Clippers value having him around as a veteran presence, and he’s been rumored to be hanging up his sneakers after the season. LA already let him go once, and they’re not doing that again.

This brings the Warriors to a potential reunion with a familiar face in Anderson. Slow-Mo signed with the Dubs prior to the 2024-25 season, and he was traded to the Miami Heat in the deal that brought Butler to the Bay. He played 36 games for the Warriors and started three games, playing 15.0 minutes a night.

Anderson is the kind of cerebral veteran that Kerr tends to rely on, and his playmaking, defense, and feel for the game makes him an easy piece to integrate for the Dubs.

He’s not going to be a very impactful veteran for the Warriors, but he should at least give the team extra insurance at the forward positions. The Memphis Grizzlies are also punting on the 2025-26 campaign, which means that Anderson could very well get bought out, paving the way for a return to the Bay.

It’s not clear, however, if the Warriors have any desire to fill their open roster spot. That would only add to their luxury tax bill. But if they do, bringing Anderson in may not be the worst idea in the world.

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Reports indicate that Curry, who turns 38 in March, will be out for at least five more games, according to Shams Charania and Anthony Slater of ESPN. The swelling and the pain have not gone away, and the Warriors are giving Curry more time to recover.

“Warriors’ Stephen Curry will be re-evaluated in 10 days due to his persistent right knee injury, sources tell me and Anthony Slater. He has been sidelined since Jan. 30 and will miss at least five more games.”

The Warriors issued a statement regarding Curry’s injury, per NBA Insider Brett Siegel. Golden State revealed that the four-time NBA Champion is dealing with patella-femoral pain syndrome, along with a bone bruise in his right knee. Luckily, there is no structural damage.

“Golden State Warriors guard Stephen Curry, who has missed the last five games due to patella-femoral pain syndrome/bone bruising in his right knee, underwent an MRI last night,” said the organization. “The MRI confirmed the injury and showed no structural damage. He will be re-evaluated in 10 days.”

Since Stephen Curry sustained the injury, the Warriors have seemingly downplayed the injury altogether. While his return to action remains in the air, the only real good news is that the MRI showed no structural damage.

The Warriors are in a crucial spot in the Western Conference after the All-Star Break. They are in eighth place and are right in the mix of the playoffs. However, having Curry back on the court is crucial for this team’s success. In the meantime, Kristaps Porzingis will likely make his debut with Golden State against the Boston Celtics on Thursday.

The post Stephen Curry set to miss at least 5 more games due to knee injury appeared first on ClutchPoints.

“If somebody said while we’re in Boston, that this was going to be the scenario,” Porzingis said. “Who would believe this? But this is how it works out. And obviously, you know, we expected Boston to have some changes with the money stuff. But yeah, it’s gonna be weird, especially this first game back against Boston.”

With the Celtics in town, Porzingis and Horford will be reunited with the team they helped lead to an NBA title only two years ago. For two players who loved the city, loved their teammates, and loved their time in the iconic green and white jerseys, it will be an emotional affair, not only for themselves but also for their families.

After the Warriors’ first full scrimmage since the All-Star break, Horford expressed how excited he is to see all of his former teammates and coaches.

“For me, it’s a lot of excitement,” Horford said. And, you know, my son Ian’s been raving about seeing a lot of the guys and seeing a lot of the coaches.  The whole thing is just, you know, it’ll be cool… It’s been different for us, but it’s been good. It’s been good for him, and it’s been good for us as a family.”

How the Celtics have fared since Horford and Porzingis’ departure

Like Horford and Porzingis’ unlikely reunion in Golden State, the Celtics’ season thus far has also been quite the surprise. With Jayson Tatum rehabbing his torn Achilles, the Celtics sacrificing Porzingis and Jrue Holiday by trading their massive salaries to get under the second apron, and the steady veteran Horford departing in free agency, this year was supposed to be a gap year for Boston to lick its wounds and reset.

Instead, the C’s sit at 35-19 on the season, near the top of the East at second in the conference. Just where they were a year ago. And the year before that. This is a surprise to all the pundits and analysts who predicted a semi-tank. But for Horford, the Celtics’ unexpected success isn’t much of a surprise.

“No,” Horford answered when asked if Boston’s success this season has surprised him. “Because of Joe [Mazzulla] and the culture that has been established in Boston. Probably the most surprising part has been the growth of Mimi [Neemias Queta] and Jordan Walsh. They have really taken huge steps in their development, and how they’re playing and how they’re impacting winning.”

In Tatum’s absence, Jaylen Brown has emerged as a true number-one option, averaging a career-high 29.3 points per game. And in the holes left behind by Porzingis, Horford, and Holiday, their youth has stepped up. Queta, Walsh, Payton Pritchard, Baylor Scheierman, Luka Garza, the guys who’d watch their powerhouse team thunder on as they sat on the bench, have become the backbone of the Celtics’ depth.

“But overall, it is kind of expected,” Horford continued, pointing to the expectation of winning inherent for one of the NBA’s most historic franchises. “I just think that Brad [Stevens] and Joe have done such a good job over there. And it’s something that’s consistent, so I am not surprised.”

Al Horford talked about what it’ll be like to face his old Boston Celtics tomorrow tonight:

“It’s a lot of excitement. My son Ian's been raving about, seeing a lot of the guys and seeing a lot of the coaches.”

Emphasized he’s not surprised about their success this season. pic.twitter.com/LjdZPwIjmK

— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) February 19, 2026

The emotions of the Celtics reunion

Reunions in the NBA aren’t always heartfelt. But for players like Horford and Porzingis, who did as much as they did for a team like Boston, this particular reunion will be special for both sides. As they prepare for the many hugs and daps and high-fives and conversations they’ll have with their old team tomorrow, Porzingis reflected on his short but fruitful time in Boston.

“I knew… going to Boston. It was going to be like championship expectations,” Porzingis said, explaining the pressure of playing for a franchise as historic as Boston’s. “It’s something every player strives [for], to be in that position…  and we did it once. The second year didn’t work out perfectly, but yeah, we had our time out there and enjoyed every moment of it. And at the end, we accomplished the big objective.

“And you know how much I love playing there. Just everything. The organization, the front office, playing in the TD Garden, the floor, the color. It’s an iconic franchise, so it will always be a part of my memory as a special time.”

It’s only part one of the Celtics reunion, as the Warriors will still have to travel to Boston later this season, where they will get their due from the rambunctious Celtic fanbase. Not to mention, this matchup could be Porzingis’ debut in a Golden State uniform as he’s been rehabbing his Achilles tendenitis all through the break. Porzingis is listed as questionable but feels optimistic about his chances to get on the floor.

Nonetheless, it’s an exciting moment for the two big men.

“It’s exciting for me, just from the standpoint that I used to see a lot of people that I care about and will compete on the court,” Horford said. “And that goes on. And then, after being able to catch up in a way with a lot of people. It’s just very special to me.”

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Although Paul finished his future Hall of Fame career without an NBA championship to his credit, one person who is not holding that against him is four-time Golden State Warriors champ Draymond Green.

“A lot of people say because Chris Paul didn’t win a championship, he is not a winner. When you compete against him, what he did with teams, was one of the ultimate winners. You just need so much luck and things to go your way in order to win a championship,” said Green, per The Draymond Green Show on YouTube, via Hoopshype.

Green’s praise of Paul did not end there.

“CP3 is one of the ultimate winners, incredible to compete against him, incredible to call him a friend, just to play a part of his career and not that I played a part of making his career, but being a competitor in his career and helping as he built his story,” he added.

Indeed, it generally takes a good amount of luck to win an NBA championship, something Green has experienced several times with the Warriors, especially in the 2015 NBA Finals, when Golden State faced off against a Cleveland Cavaliers team playing without two of its top three players.

Paul came very close to winning that elusive ring back in 2021, but ultimately, his Phoenix Suns blew a 2-0 lead in the NBA Finals against the Milwaukee Bucks and ended up coming up just short.

Still, as Green noted, that shouldn’t do much to diminish Paul’s legacy as one of the best point guards of his generation, and a lock to make the Hall of Fame one day.

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Green acknowledged that the matter remains unproven but suggested that, if true, the fallout inside a locker room could create awkward tension.

“I personally would address it publicly if it’s a public thing and taking on the life that it’s taken. But to each his own. But I’ll tell you what, if it is I don’t know how you walk back into practice, I mean walking back into practice after the break almost you walk into the locker room it probably feel like a Key & Peele sketch. Just like a little awkward like what do you do? Uh what’s up bro? I don’t know. Yeah, but anyway, these are alleged. It’s alleged to be KD’s burner account. Maybe one day we’ll know the truth. Maybe we already know the truth, maybe we already know the truth. Who knows?”

Screenshots from an account called @gethigher77, which is now private, circulated widely during All-Star Weekend. There is no verified proof that Durant operates the account, though the speculation has sparked extensive online debate.

The account reportedly criticized several Houston players, including Jabari Smith Jr. and Alperen Sengun, questioning Sengun’s shooting and defense while raising concerns about Smith’s scoring and defensive consistency. Other claims suggested the account criticized former teammates Devin Booker and Kyrie Irving, including comments labeling Booker a “dictator” and implying Irving acted as though Durant owed him something.

Draymond Green taking about the Kevin Durant burner account situation

“I personally would address it publicly if it’s a public thing and taking on the life that it’s taken. But to each his own. But I’ll tell you what, if it is I don’t know how you walk back into practice, I… pic.twitter.com/2UjQQpIyB6

— NBA Courtside (@NBA__Courtside) February 19, 2026

Rockets star Kevin Durant’s burner history looms over new allegations

Durant has previously been connected to anonymous social media accounts. In September 2017, while playing for the Warriors, he accidentally posted a response from his verified account in the third person that appeared intended for a burner account. The tweet defended his departure from the Oklahoma City Thunder and criticized former coach Billy Donovan and teammate Russell Westbrook.

“He didn’t like the organisation or playing for Billy Donovan. His roster wasn’t that good, it was just him and Russ,” the tweet read, according to reports at the time.

Durant has since spoken openly about his social media engagement. During an appearance on The Pivot Podcast in October, he described posting online as a form of emotional release.

“I don’t want to build up all this hate towards media or fans,” Durant said. “So I just say what I feel in the moment.”

The 37-year-old signed a two-year, $90 million extension following his offseason trade to the Rockets in a multi-team deal. He has continued to perform at an elite level, averaging 25.8 points, 5.3 rebounds and 4.4 assists while shooting 50.6% from the field and 40.3% from three across 50 games. Houston holds a 33–20 record and sits fourth in the Western Conference standings.

The Rockets will return to action Thursday night at 7:00 p.m. ET in a road matchup against the Charlotte Hornets (26–29), as the focus shifts back to on-court performance amid continued social media speculation.

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Since this moment, the Warriors have gone 2-3 without their leader and did expect that he would be ready to go after his extended absence into the All-Star break. However, head coach Steve Kerr revealed on Wednesday evening that Steph will not play on Thursday against the Boston Celtics coming out of the break, and it’s possible that he could receive a second MRI to determine the exact nature of his knee soreness.

“Steph did not practice today,” Kerr told reporters in San Francisco, via ClutchPoints’ Kenzo Fukuda. “He’s going to be re-evaluated tonight by our training staff, but he just wasn’t where he needed to be to go through the scrimmage. It’s unfortunate, but we’ll have an update tomorrow when he goes through his time with the training staff.”

Curry has been working behind the scenes and during the All-Star break to try to get back on the floor for the Warriors, yet his knee soreness still exists, and he didn’t feel he was ready to go through a full practice.

Warriors continue to downplay Stephen Curry’s knee injury

Over the last three weeks, Curry has been on the Warriors’ injury report with right patellofemoral pain syndrome, also known as runner’s knee, which typically takes days of extended rest and time to heal. Initially, the team was labeling Curry as day-to-day with his knee injury.

Friday will mark exactly three weeks since the injury occurred.

Despite Kerr’s concerning announcement on Wednesday and Curry missing Thursday’s game against the Celtics, the Warriors have continued to downplay Steph’s knee ailment. The organization does not view this as a major concern heading into the final stretch run of the regular season, and the situation has been described as the franchise operating with an abundance of caution, team sources told ClutchPoints.

With the Warriors already being without Jimmy Butler for the remainder of the year and not being where they had hoped to be in the standings as a result, there is no room for error. That is why Golden State is exercising immense caution with Curry and will continue to wait for him to be 100 percent before getting back on the court.

Even so, Curry’s knee health for the remainder of the season is not a concern at this moment for the Warriors, with sources relaying that he would be playing if the playoffs began today.

As the Warriors prepare for the end of the regular season, they find themselves 29-26 overall, three full games behind the Phoenix Suns for the 7-seed in the West standings. Although the Dubs continue to battle injury problems and hover around .500 on the year, the organization is still optimistic of its chances to compete for the 6-seed or better in the Western Conference.

With six games remaining against those currently ranked inside the top four of the West standings, there are plenty of opportunities for Golden State to prove itself as contending threats this season. Butler may be out for the year with his ACL injury, but the Warriors will be getting their first look at Kristaps Porzingis when he makes his debut on Thursday against Boston.

As for Curry, he will continue to receive treatment on his knee and hopes to return sooner rather than later. At this time, there is no clear timetable for when he will actually make his return, simply because this is a pain-tolerance injury based on his overall knee strength.

The Warriors understand that their playoff hopes are solely contingent on Curry’s overall health, which is why he will not be rushed back into action.

In 39 games this season, Curry has averaged 27.2 points and 4.8 assists while shooting 46.8 percent from the floor and 39.1 percent from 3-point range. He once again leads the league in both 3-pointers made (4.5) and 3-pointers attempted (11.5) per game.

Thursday night will mark Curry’s 17th absence of the season, meaning he will officially be ineligible for end-of-season honors and awards upon missing one more game.

The post Why Warriors are downplaying Stephen Curry’s mysterious knee injury appeared first on ClutchPoints.

Porzingis’ talent cannot be questioned, although his health issues became so glaring that it was a very risky move for the Warriors to acquire him in hopes that he becomes the piece they need to rejuvenate the team following Jimmy Butler’s season-ending injury.

The Hawks gave up on Porzingis due to his unavailability; he’s only played 17 games this season, with his battle against Postural Orthostatic Tachycardia Syndrome (POTS) preventing him from suiting up as often as Atlanta would have liked.

The good news is that Porzingis was a full participant in practice prior to the Warriors’ Thursday night clash against the Boston Celtics, although head coach Steve Kerr remains unsure as to whether or not he’d be healthy enough to play.

“He practiced. We’ll list him as questionable for tomorrow,” Kerr said, via ClutchPoints Warriors beat reporter Kenzo Fukuda. “But full participant in practice and in scrimmage. Looked good. Fingers crossed but everything is going well so far.”

Steve Kerr said Steph Curry will not be available for the Boston Celtics game tomorrow. Did not practice today.

“Just wasn't where he needed to be to go through the scrimmage.”

Kristaps Porzingis however was a full participant and will be listed as questionable. pic.twitter.com/FB2g7NMsbM

— Kenzo Fukuda (@kenzofuku) February 19, 2026

Can Kristaps Porzingis be as impactful as the Warriors need him to be?

Porzingis has the ability to be an impact player for the Warriors; the problem, of course, is the unavailability. He has incredible floor-spacing ability and he’s an intimidating shot-blocker, which makes him a perfect fit for the Dubs system.

The Warriors weren’t necessarily in a position to be picky with the risks they could take with their roster. The Kuminga situation has grown out of their control; getting a former All-Star was as good as it’s gonna get, especially when Kuminga hasn’t played much this season and he’s currently dealing with an injury himself.

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Stephen Curry will miss his sixth straight game with patellofemoral pain syndrome, otherwise known as runner’s knee. The Warriors had hoped the All-Star break would have given Curry enough time to recover from the lingering inflammation inherent to this type of injury. But it appears Curry will need more time to recover, as he was unable to participate in the team’s scrimmage today.

“[Curry] is going to be evaluated tonight by our training staff,” Kerr said. “But just wasn’t where he needed to be and to go through the scrimmage. And so it’s unfortunate, but we’ll have an update tomorrow after he goes through his time with the training staff tonight.”

On the brighter side of things, the Warriors upgraded Kristaps Porzingis to questionable for their matchup with the Celtics. After a strong week of rehab and ramping up his workload, Porzingis was able to fully scrimmage with the team today, one of the final barriers they set for him before they decide to clear him to play. After practice, Porzingis told reporters he’s feeling good ahead of his potential return.

“Feeling excellent,” Porzingis said about his first official scrimmage with the Warriors. “I feel good on court. I did a bunch of work before the All-Star break and the couple of days off, but I stayed active. Wanted to not take some time off, because I barely played this season. I want to get out there, and I’m feeling good and start building on top of this and finish the year really strong.”

Porzingis raved about playing on Draymond Green’s team, a pairing he and the Warriors are very excited for. Porzingis said he “loves” working with Green and understands now why he’s been so important for Golden State.

However, it’s a pairing that may have to wait. Kerr did not confirm whether or not Porzingis will actually be available for the Celtics game. But all signs seem encouraging, especially after Porzingis gave a cheeky answer when asked if he intends to make his Warriors debut tomorrow.

“I don’t know how much I can say,” Porzingis said with a smile as he looked at the Warriors’ PR team to catch a hint of what he could say. “But feeling good and ready to go.”

The Warriors plan for Kristaps Porzingis when he returns

With Porzingis, Kerr doesn’t have a precise vision for his minutes restriction, but estimated around the 15-minute range. As a result, Kerr expects to play him in short bursts as he continues to work himself back from injury. Porzingis shared that while that kind of short burst minutes plan wasn’t initially how he liked to be rotated in, he’s come to adjust to that minutes style.

“I used to hate playing short spurts,” Porzingis said. “Especially coming back from something because you’re out there for a little period of time, it’s almost hard to get in rhythm. You don’t want to go in and chuck the first shot. But sometimes I do now. So I’m coming in, you know, just have my opportunities. Have to take them and find the rhythm that way.”

With Porzingis, the Warriors are particularly excited for what he’ll bring to their offense. With Butler out for the season, and Curry sidelined with an injury they’ve described as day-to-day for the past several weeks, they’ll be looking to Porzingis to give them a new dimension on that end.

“His ability to score the ball offensively, I feel like he’s really going to be able to help us,” his old Celtics teammate, now Warriors teammate, Al Horford said. Though familiar with each other’s game, Porzingis’s role in Boston was more defensive enforcer instead of an offensive initiator. With the Warriors, they’ll be asking for more of the latter.

“He’ll probably have more opportunities on the offensive end, especially obviously with us missing Jimmy and everything, I think that there’s a great opportunity for him to step in and have a bigger role offensively.”

Regardless, Porzingis is taking his return slowly as he looks to become the Dubs’ X-factor down the stretch post All-Star break.

“Again, not to put any crazy expectations on myself. Just one day at a time. Build up from the low minutes I’m gonna have. Build up slowly, and I’ll be fine.”

The post Stephen Curry out, Kristaps Porzingis optimistic for Warriors-Celtics matchup appeared first on ClutchPoints.

“Kristaps has been here the last handful of days, and practiced today with the team,” Kerr said, an improvement from the last update in which he was doing 5-on-5 work in the halfcourt.

“Looks good. He’s feeling good. We won’t make a determination until after tomorrow, when we practice tomorrow afternoon. We’ll get up and down the floor and scrimmage, which we didn’t do today.”

As for Stephen Curry, who has missed the last five games with patellofemoral pain syndrome in his knee, Kerr did not have much of an update on the star point guard, as the team gave him and the veterans an extra day off.

The Warriors essentially ruled him out of the last two games before the break and the All-Star break to give him as much time as possible to get his runner’s knee under control. The idea is to have him and Porzingis as healthy as possible for the 27-game sprint that awaits them down the stretch as they look to move out of the eighth seed and the play-in tournament.

They’ve succeeded with the first part of the plan. Porzingis spent the break rehabbing with the team while Curry stayed off his feet – save for an insane trick shot at All-Star weekend in LA. Now comes the evaluation of their progress, as they look to get them back for the home-run stretch.

“That’s the hope,” Kerr acknowledged. “But again, we have to– We haven’t seen Steph yet, and Kristaps needs to participate in a scrimmage first. We’ll just see how it goes tomorrow.”

What the Warriors envision for Kristaps Porzingis

As many have pointed out in the wake of the Porzingis acquisition, his size, defense, and shooting fit the kind of player the Warriors have sought out for years. Obviously, that vision requires Porzingis’s rollercoaster medical history to remain stable, but that hasn’t dampened Kerr or the Warriors’ excitement for what he can be for them.

Kerr has maintained that they would not have traded for Porzingis if they weren’t confident in his health. And while much of that confidence likely rests in the highly lauded Rick Celebrini and his top-notch medical staff, the Warriors feel outwardly confident about what Porzingis brings to the table.

“He’s an easy fit,” Kerr told reporters Wednesday evening after their first practice since the break. “You don’t have to change a whole lot. You know, the biggest difference, I guess, that he provides is his post-ups. He’s a pretty good post-up player, especially against switches. You throw him the ball at the foul line, the elbows, even the low block.”

With Porzingis, the Warriors are searching for band-aids to the gaping Jimmy Butler-sized hole in their offense. Kerr mentioned the spacing Porzingis generates will be different than what Butler offered, but is excited for his ability to play within their trademark split-actions.

“I’m actually more excited about having him in the split with somebody else having the ball,” Kerr mentioned. “When we throw him the ball in the post, we’re going to ask him to score quite a bit, but he’s such a dynamic player that you can also run pin downs for him. He can shoot it on the move. He’s not just pick and pop… So he should fit into everything we do pretty smoothly.”

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On Tuesday, the trio of Davide Ghiotto, Michele Malfatti, and Andrea Giovannini pulled off an upset win over Americans Casey Dawson, Emery Lehman, and Ethan Cepura, per NBC Sports. They won the men’s team pursuit in 3 minutes, 39.20 seconds. It was 4.5 seconds better than the Americans.

After crossing the finish line, they engaged in the “night night” celebration to troll the American team.

Italy did the Steph Curry 'night night' celebration after upsetting Team USA for the gold medal in men's team pursuit in speed skating at the Winter Olympics

(via @NBCSports)pic.twitter.com/fi0wY9jxVl

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 17, 2026

The Italian trio not only won the gold, but did so in front of a hometown crowd. Furthermore, they beat an American team that previously held the world record time.

The origins of the “night night” celebration date back to 2022. At the time, Curry and the Warriors were playing against the Denver Nuggets in the NBA Playoffs. In Game 3 of the First Round, the Warriors put up a fourth-quarter run thanks to Curry coming off the bench following an injury.

After scoring a layup on Nikola Jokic, Curry did the “night night” celebration.

From there, it took on a life of its own, particularly after the Paris Olympics. Warriors coach Steve Kerr said that moment was one of the greatest in basketball history. Furthermore, Kerr concluded his speech at the 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago with the “night night” gesture.

Also, Buffalo Bills running back James Cook celebrated in the same vein in the first half of the Bills’ game against the Cleveland Browns on Dec. 21.

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In an interview with People magazine, Curry would be asked about retirement, with the point guard being a part of the film and entertainment world, having produced a couple of recent features. However, Curry would say that his retirement is not happening “anytime soon.”

“It’ll declare itself, whenever the time comes to call it quits, which I don’t think is anytime soon,” Curry said, as he’s in his 17th season with Golden State. “I’m not really putting too much pressure on that.”

At 37 years old, Curry is still showcasing how elite he is as he’s averaging 27.2 points. 4.8 assists, and 3.5 rebounds per game while shooting 46.8 percent from the field and 39.1 percent from beyond the arc.

“Thinking about the end robs you of the now,” Curry explains. “I’m enjoying the journey of competing and all the work that goes into it. Hopefully that carries me a long way.”

Warriors’ Stephen Curry speaks more about his career

While Curry will be representing the Warriors with the three-point contest in next season’s All-Star weekend, he doesn’t seem ready to call it quits anytime soon. In fact, Curry keeps making history and reaching milestones, even looking at being a crucial part in leading Team USA to a gold medal in 2024.

“It is a badge of honor to now be the oldest player doing all of these great things,” Curry said. “To redefine what greatness looks like at this age.”

“So I wear all of those things like a badge of honor, because I know how much work goes into it— to play this game that I love,” Curry continued.

At any rate, Curry looks to help Golden State currently as the team is 29-26, putting them eighth in the Western Conference, as the first game coming off the All-Star break is on Thursday against the Boston Celtics.

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The signing of Nate Williams now brings the Warriors’ roster to 14 standard deals and three two-way contracts. Under a two-way contract, Williams is limited to the amount of games he can be active for, but with the Warriors only having 27 games remaining in the regular season, he isn’t in any danger of using up those games. Williams won’t be able to play in the playoffs, however.

After spending training camp with the Los Angeles Lakers, Williams had been playing this season with the Long Island Nets, the Brooklyn Nets’ affiliate in the G League. He had appeared in 35 games, at just about 34 minutes per game. He had been averaging 18.4 points, 6.0 rebounds, 2.5 assists and 1.8 steals with splits of 47.2 percent shooting from the field, 36.5 percent shooting from the 3-point line and 80 percent shooting from the free-throw line.

After going undrafted in the 2022 NBA Draft, Williams got his NBA start when he signed with the Portland Trail Blazers near the tail end of the 2022-23 season. That was his best stretch to this point, averaging a career-best 10.6 points and shooting 61.5 percent from the field in five games. He spent the 2023-24 and 2024-25 seasons with the Houston Rockets.

After the All-Star break, the Warriors will resume play on Thursday, Feb. 19 against the Boston Celtics. They are currently 29-26 and in eighth place in the Western Conference standings. Bolstered by the deadline addition of Kristaps Porzingis, the Warriors will look to make a push during the final months of the regular season.

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Curry is approaching the age of 38 but remains among the best players in the NBA today, and recently, basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal had some high praise for the future Hall of Famer.

In a segment that he did with Overtime, O’Neal was given a picture of several NBA legends and asked to speak when he saw a player better than Curry. O’Neal didn’t talk during the entire segment, despite seeing pictures of several all-time greats, including none other than himself.

Finally, the big man wrapped it up by saying, “Steph is the GOAT,” per Overtime on Instagram.

O’Neal has long been known as one of Curry’s most outspoken supporters in the NBA media landscape, which serves as a stark juxtaposition to his frequent criticisms of big men in the league today.

In a vacuum, it makes sense that O’Neal would be enamored by Curry’s ability to shoot the ball from long range, considering his own struggles with knocking in shots from outside the paint, and one also has to appreciate Curry’s longevity, playing at a level somewhat comparable to his prime as he approaches 20 years in the NBA.

Meanwhile, the Warriors shook things up slightly at the recent NBA trade deadline by trading for Atlanta Hawks big man Kristaps Porzingis, but it remains to be seen if that will be enough to vault them into contender status out West.

The Warriors will next hit the floor on Thursday against the Boston Celtics.

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However, for Bill Simmons, Lacob’s desire to add the Padres to his portfolio may mean he ends up selling the Warriors.

“I’m wondering, so let’s say he wins, and he gets the Padres. Is it inconceivable to think that would be the next team available? Because I’ve asked it from people, and they were like, ‘No way, he’ll never sell the Warriors,’” Simmons initially said on The Bill Simmons podcast.

However, Simmons believes it may lead to Lacob simply moving on to a new challenge.

“But this is kind of the perfect time to sell the Warriors, right now. Because you’re at the height of the market, expansion money is coming and then on top of it the new owner can be the new owner of the team that has Steph Curry on it for the next three to seven years, however long he plays. And you could just be like, you know what, four titles. I couldn’t have done better. I built this amazing infrastructure, and now I’m going to take my talents over to baseball,” he said.

There is no doubt that the Warriors are in need of a rebuild in order to emerge as a contender over the next few seasons. Stephen Curry, who heralded the Warriors’ championship runs, is now 37, with Draymond Green also rushing towards the end of his career.

Further, the Padres present a unique opportunity for Lacob. The team is being explored for sale following the death of owner Peter Seidler and ongoing legal and financial complexities surrounding the family trust that controls the organization.

Lacob has previously attempted to buy other MLB teams, including the Athletics and Angels, and has long expressed a desire to own a baseball franchise. From a purely business standpoint, the timing may just be right for Lacob to actually enter the MLB, even if it comes at the expense of an NBA exit.

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But he is not just hot air. Many regard him as a smart dude. Green has a clear perspective on things, albeit controversial at times. At the very least, he gets people discussing, which is always good for the NBA.

Sports commentator Skip Bayless asked Green if he wishes to be an NBA commissioner someday, noting that the veteran forward has the “right mind” and can “help this league in a leadership position.” Green gave a clear reply.

“I would love to. I always want to see this league grow. In my time in this league, I’ve had my fair share of hiccups, but I hope, and I think I’ve done more good than bad,” said the four-time All-Star on his podcast.

As he mentioned, the 35-year-old Green has had his troubles with the league due to his mercurial personality. He has been suspended six times by the NBA and has paid over $1 million in fines.

Because of these, it is hard to imagine him becoming the first player to become an NBA commissioner, even though he understands the nuances of the league and the mindset of the players.

NBA commissioner Adam Silver, meanwhile, was recently called out by sports commentators Bill Simmons and Michael Kay for leadership issues. Simmons said he is unsure if Silver is the right guy to run the NBA, while Kay said Silver should have a stricter approach.

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In Game 4 of the 2016 NBA Finals between the Warriors and the Cleveland Cavaliers, Green hit James in the groin area after getting tangled up. Later on, he called the four-time MVP a “b****” when they had another altercation.

Sports commentator Skip Bayless, a notorious hater of James, lauded Green for calling out the four-time MVP, noting that the latter “can be occasionally a b****.” Green, however, admitted that what he did was wrong.

“That’s my brother. It’s actually one of the moments that I regret. Because when I use that word with people, I’ll pull it out every now and then on the court, but when I pull that word out, I’m ready to fight. So I’m saying this word to you, so you can get ready to fight me right now,” said Green on his podcast.

“So when I look back at that moment, it’s one that I’m not proud of. Especially with where our relationship is today. It’s one that, like I said, when I pull that word out, all respect is out the window. My respect for ‘Bron is through the roof.”

In recent years, Green and James have forged a close relationship, even spending time together in the offseason. Being in the same agency firm has also helped them get to know each other better.

The 35-year-old Green has often expressed his admiration for the 41-year-old James, even calling him the GOAT.

While they still have physical tussles when the Warriors and the Lakers face off, they are born out of competitive fire instead of genuine loathing. Ultimately, as Green mentioned, it is always about respect.

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However, Curry was still in attendance in Los Angeles for the festivities, and during a pre-game interview with NBC, he launched a shot from the network’s set in the stands, of course, drilling it, much to the amazement of the fans in the arena.

(Per Oh No He Didn’t on X, formerly Twitter).

STEPH CURRY IS INSANE

Curry hits an unreal trick shot from the NBC commentators both

pic.twitter.com/hqq9Qkyd91

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 15, 2026

Curry has long been known for his propensity to knock down epic trick shots prior to games, often launching shots from the tunnel of both the Oracle Arena and the Chase Center prior to games, amazing fans in the process. In fact, fans tend to show up hours early for Warriors games just to see the spectacle.

While Curry unfortunately won’t be able to play in the game itself due to the knee injury, he is still finding ways to entertain the fans regardless.

Curry isn’t the only notable player to be forced out of the game due to injury, as Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo and reigning league MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander of the Oklahoma City Thunder will also be sidelined for the festivities.

It will certainly be interesting to see if the players who are available will be able to provide a higher effort level than they have in previous years.

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After seeing Damian Lillard become just the third player ever in the history of the contest to win it three times, when the Portland Trail Blazers raised the trophy on Saturday, Curry said on the NBA Showtime broadcast that he will be there “a hundred percent.”

Moreover, the two-time NBA Most Valuable Player said that he will try to bring along former Warriors teammate and the other half of the legendary “Splash Brothers,” Klay Thompson, to be there, as well as other players.

“I already scheduled it. We’re gonna bring some people. Me, Dame [Damian Lillard], I’m gonna try to get Klay [Thompson], Dev [Devin Booker],” Curry added.

BREAKING: Steph Curry says he will participate in the 3-Point Contest next year

Curry says he’s going to try and get Klay Thompson and Damian Lillard to compete next year as well pic.twitter.com/NW1ljZbeql

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 15, 2026

Like everybody else, Curry watched Lillard, who is now with the Portland Trail Blazers again, join 3-point shootout legends Larry Bird and Craig Hodges as the only players ever to win the event three times. Bird topped it in 1986, 1987 and 1988, while Hodges ruled it in 1990, 1991 and 1992. Lillard won the contest in 2023 and 2024 before topping it again in 2026 despite the fact that he is still recovering from an Achilles injury.

As for Curry, he is a two-time three-point shootout king, having bagged the crown in 2015 and 2021,

As the NBA’s all-time leader in 3-pointers made, Curry probably felt obligated to join the event in 2027 for a chance to join Lillard, Bird and Hodges in the extremely exclusive three-time winners club.

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One of the major talking points heading into this year’s All-Star game was the perceived lack of effort from players in the game in recent years, and now, Curry has pitched one potential solution to the problem.

“I think, the only thing I would think about is shortening the game. That might be the only real suggestion I would have just cuz it’s hard to replicate the intensity of a regular season game and nobody’s asking anybody to act like it’s a playoff game with those type of stakes, but shorter game maybe,” said Curry, per Chaz NBA on YouTube, via Hoopshype.

The league has tried a variety of different formats in the All-Star game in recent years, this year going with a USA vs World setup, comprised of several 12-minute games in a round robin tournament, followed by a championship match.

Players in previous seasons couldn’t be bothered to put forth much of any effort with the various gimmicks that the league office has tried in order to remedy the issue, and many fans are skeptical that this year will be any different, despite the fact that the players’ lack of effort has now become a major talking point leading into the event.

Curry has been known as one of the few players who want to put on a show for the fans at All-Star weekend, and it will certainly be a disappointment for the fans in attendance that he is unable to go.

Tipoff is set for 5:00 pm ET.

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Curry was spotted wearing the “Gold Medal” edition of the AE 1 Low, the signature sneaker belonging to Minnesota Timberwolves star Anthony Edwards. It was a full-circle moment that left the typically confident Edwards feeling like a starstruck teenager on the sidelines.

Edwards has never been shy about his admiration for the greatest shooter of all time. He called Curry the GOAT, though he did it with a classic Edwards twist. “Curry the GOAT… He doesn’t know it but he really is me, His alter ego is me.”

"Curry the GOAT… He doesn't know it but he really is me, His alter ego is me."

Anthony Edwards reaction to Steph Curry rocking his kicks for NBA All-Star Media Day

(via @NBA)
pic.twitter.com/SP9YaLbs7o

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 14, 2026

Anthony Edwards is a favorite among the players as well. He loves joking around with all the stars, from LeBron to KD, and many more, a glimpse of which fans got to see during the Olympics.

In fact, even the connection between the two goes back to the 2024 Paris Olympics, where they helped lead Team USA to a gold medal. During a match against the Warriors last year, Edwards was seen breaking league protocols by sneaking his phone onto the bench to snap photos of Curry wearing his kicks.

Edwards admitted he felt like a kid again, noting that he grew up wearing Curry’s shoes since middle school and even attended Curry’s basketball camp before making it to the league.

Seeing the four-time champion lace up his signature line was a massive moment for Edwards, especially since Curry is currently navigating a high-profile sneaker free agency.

While the actual All-Star Game featuring the new Team USA versus Team World format is still hours away, the viral moment involving the AE 1 Lows has already stolen the show. For Edwards, seeing a player he idolized wearing his gear only solidified the “alter ego” narrative he loves to push

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Curry questioned the severity of the NBA’s tanking issue during his media availability on Saturday.

“Is it really that big of a problem? I’m asking. We feel like there’s obviously a lot of competition,” Curry said. “It’s something I’m sure every year the NBA wants to address: why the Play-in Tournament exists. Things evolve, problems arise, and everybody wants to shine a spotlight on all the negatives of the league. But let’s focus on the positives of how great the competition is at the top. There still is relevancy regular season-wise of the seeding and playoff chase.

“I know there’s a conversation around how many games we’re playing. That’s probably where I would focus more the attention. Let’s not forget the league is in great place overall in terms of the attention, the skill level, the global reach, all of that stuff. Every year you’ll address the issues. I don’t have those answers though,” Curry concluded.

Steph Curry was asked what he thinks the NBA should do to reduce tanking:

“Is it really that big of a problem? I’m asking. We feel like there’s obviously a lot of competition. It’s something I’m sure every year the NBA wants to address, why the Play-in Tournament exists. Things… pic.twitter.com/tMVMb1VaNK

— aly ✶ (@jinthirty) February 14, 2026

For Curry, the 82-game regular season should also be a topic of conversation. Perhaps trimming the 82 games or adding a week or two to the season would help with how demanding the NBA regular season can be, as Stephen Curry noted.

Adam Silver addresses NBA teams’ tanking

Without any specific ideas to disclose, NBA commissioner Adam Silver confirmed that tanking is an issue in the league, one that will be addressed beyond the league’s recent fines. Silver tackled the topic during his availability at Media Day.

“There is talk about every possible remedy now to stop this behavior,” Silver replied.

"There is talk about every possible remedy now to stop this behavior."

NBA Commissioner Adam Silver on the possibility of stripping teams of draft picks instead of issuing fines pic.twitter.com/q9f45Xj0rd

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 14, 2026

New penalties for teams sitting their best players could be announced by the NBA in the near future.

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Charania believes his game resembles that of a fellow Chicago, Illinois native. “So I would say Steph Curry, but I’m not going to be that audacious,” he joked before the exhibition contest. “Jannero Pargo… he was a microwave scorer. Some nights he would ball out, {shoot} threes, could handle the ball a little bit, and I think I’m in that mold.”

“I would say Steph Curry but I won’t be that audacious. Jannero Pargo, used to play for the Lakers, used to play for the Bulls. He was a microwave scorer.”

Shams Charania on his NBA player comparison

pic.twitter.com/6mRzXTImqG

— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) February 13, 2026

Pargo, an undrafted guard out of Arkansas, played for the Los Angeles Lakers, Toronto Raptors, Chicago Bulls, New Orleans Hornets, Atlanta Hawks, Washington Wizards and Charlotte Hornets/Bobcats during his 11-year NBA career. He averaged 6.4 points per game while shooting 39.1 percent from the field and 35.6 percent from 3-point range. Charania is obviously not going to be on the same level as a pro, but he at least made a rational comparison.

The 31-year-old has the luxury of sharing the floor with capable teammates like Jeremy Lin, Tacko Fall, Amon-Ra St. Brown and 2025 Celebrity All-Star Game MVP Rome Flynn. He may want to pick his spots and take advantage of the talent around him.

Unfortunately, Shams Charania will be at the mercy of someone he reported on ad nauseam leading up to the NBA trade deadline. Milwaukee Bucks superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo is once again serving as a coach for the contest, and he might want to make the respected insider squirm a bit.

Charania will try to overcome whatever obstacles stand in his way and unleash his inner Jannero Pargo in Inglewood, California’s Kia Forum.

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Green prefaced his take by noting that the All-Star Game’s traditional East vs. West format, in which the best players from their respective conferences square off, has held some of the more competitive games in the NBA’s rich history, he said, per The Draymond Green Show alongside NBA analyst Skip Bayless.

“I remember Kobe getting his nose broken in the All-Star Game. Got his nose broken. Those guys were really, truly competing,” Green said. “When you look at it back then, though, it wasn’t the same as it is, and until we accept that, and just stop saying, “But look at those guys and what they did — they played hard.” Old saying: if you knew better, you’d do better.

“So if I know better about my body better, then, I’m going to do better about my body. So, until that’s prioritized, I don’t think you’re going to have a good game.”

In today’s NBA, competing at a high level in the All-Star Game hasn’t been the case for years. Green says changing the format won’t make the game better.

“Best in the East, Best in the West, it works when the game is good. We doing all this different gimmicks makes it more of a joke. It looks good for a year, it’s a quick fix, but then you are like I don’t want to see that again. Because it wasn’t the game I grew up on. I can’t see this World vs. USA, and then equate it to when KG was on the East, and Shaq was on the West. I can’t do that, it doesn’t make sense to me, it’s not the same thing.”

Draymond Green calls out Adam Silver and the NBA for the new All Star format calling it a joke to the league:

“Best in the East, Best in the West it works when the game is good. We doing all this different gimmicks makes it more of a joke. It looks good for a year it’s a quick… pic.twitter.com/vsQXjb3aJA

— Ahmed/The Ears/IG: BigBizTheGod (@big_business_) February 13, 2026

For Green, the NBA All-Stars of particular eras, such as the 1990s and 2000s, are what made the All-Star Games of the past special, which is something he believes there’s no new format to help Adam Silver revive today’s NBA stars.

How Warriors’ Draymond Green put Doris Burke on blast

Warriors veteran Draymond Green called out NBA commentator Doris Burke for allegedly having a critical eye when it came to the veteran’s approach. Green said Burke rarely says anything nice about him, and that’s always been the case throughout his career, he said, on his Threads.

“She will always ignore things happening to me and only half mention the good. And take shots when they are available. Been that way for a while…”

Green and the Warriors enter the All-Star break with a 29-26 record.

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After the game, a fan on Threads alleged that Spurs star Victor Wembanyama fouled Green during a key sequence.

“Doris Burke, completely ignoring the fact that Wemby has his arm completely wrapped around Green,” @fs.kid wrote.

Green responded directly:

“She will always ignore things happening to me and only half mention the good. And take shots when they are available. Been that way for a while…”

The 35-year-old forward turned in a near triple-double performance with Stephen Curry sidelined, finishing with 17 points, 12 rebounds and eight assists in 30 minutes. He shot 6-for-14 from the field and 2-for-8 from beyond the arc while serving as the primary facilitator.

Doris Burke’s past criticism of Draymond Green resurfaces after Warriors loss

Burke has previously been critical of Green’s on-court conduct. During last season’s first-round playoff series against the Houston Rockets, she questioned whether officials allowed Green more leeway regarding technical fouls.

“How many guys get this kind of leash, in the league, to get a Flagrant 1 and continue the discussion?” Burke said during that broadcast.

Play-by-play announcer Mike Breen added:

“They’re gonna give players a little extra rope…but it just gets tired.”

“How many guys get this kind of leash, in the league, to get a Flagrant 1 and continue the discussion?”

“They’re gonna give players a little extra rope…but it just gets tired.”

Doris Burke and Mike Breen react to Draymond Green getting a Flagrant 1 and continuing to argue. pic.twitter.com/xVq4AuzMlL

— Awful Announcing (@awfulannouncing) May 3, 2025

The Warriors surrendered a 16-point lead in the loss and fell to 29-26, sliding into the Western Conference’s eighth seed entering NBA All-Star Weekend at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.

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That perception around Curry often makes for some hilarious interactions with NFL stars. Take Kittle, for example. The 49ers star recalls the time he met the Warriors star point guard for the first time. Kittle hilariously says that the interaction with Curry “messed with his mental”.

“The first time I ever met Steph was actually at a San Francisco Giants baseball game,” Kittle said, per Complex Sports. “It really messed with my mental state. When I met him in Perth for the first time, I was like, ah, shoot. I’m not that big. I’m just not.”

Kittle also talked about LeBron James and his experience watching the NBA legend play.

“And then one time I got to see, like, I got to sit courtside and watch LeBron do a full-court spin move dunk. And I was like, oh my God, just dunking it. Good for you, man. That’s not me. We play different games. I would hit him in the knees, though.”

Curry stands at around 6’2, which isn’t small by any means. In the NFL, Curry would be considered a little taller than usual. However, due to the nature of the sport he plays in, the Warriors star tends to look small while he’s playing. That likely factored into Kittle’s psyche and why the 49ers star was a little spooked when he first saw Curry.

Unfortunately, Kittle suffered a torn Achilles during the 49ers’ playoff run this year. Because of that injury, the 49ers star tight end will likely not play for a significant part of the 2026 season, if not the entirety of it. Kittle is a multi-time All-Pro and Pro Bowl tight end.

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There’s no denying that the general sentiment around the team is close to being in the gutter due to the season-ending injury to Jimmy Butler and Curry’s injury. According to Nick Friedell of The Athletic, Curry knows that the sports world has written off Golden State, as he’s “gearing himself up” for a playoff push.

“And the thing that makes me interested in this last stretch of game is Steph is well aware that everybody’s written them off,” Friedell said, according to 95.7 The Game. That’s one of the most competitive dudes I’ve ever seen. He knows that everybody’s sitting there going, ‘I can’t make anything happen this year.’ Again. That doesn’t mean they’re going to go make some insane run to the finals. What that does mean is he’s gearing himself up to make that push in the playoffs, because we all agree he doesn’t have that many left.”

"Steph is well aware that everybody's written them off… he's gearing himself up to make that push in the playoffs because we all agree he doesn't have that many left."

– @NickFriedell via @SteinyGuru957. pic.twitter.com/67E1CQYvUh

— 95.7 The Game (@957thegame) February 12, 2026

Warriors enter the All-Star break, hoping for Stephen Curry to recover

While the Warriors traded Jonathan Kuminga and acquired Kristaps Porzingis, the team doesn’t work unless it has its featured star in Curry, who’s averaging 27.2 points per game on 46.8 percent shooting from the field and 39.1 percent from deep. When it comes to his knee injury, Friedell speaks on what the approach will be like during the All-Star break.

“Specific to the knee. I do think they’re concerned. It’s why they put and kept him out for two weeks now. They want to make sure that when he gets back, this isn’t a recurring issue. The problem is that you just don’t know how it’s going to be until he starts running around again,” Friedell said.

Curry and Golden State are getting much-needed time off as the team is 29-26, putting them eighth in the Western Conference.

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The Dubs have had their share of losses this season but this one felt acceptable. They fought tough against the two-seeded Spurs, just as they had without Stephen Curry the past week and just as they have the past 11 games since Jimmy Butler was lost for the season.

There was satisfaction and content with where they stand as a team, as players and coaches packed their bags for the All-Star break and waved their temporary hasta la vistas, because it’s been a hell of a roller coaster through these past 55 games.

“A lot has happened,” a tired Steve Kerr summarized. “With Jimmy’s injury and the trade. We’ve got a chance to get
recharged here over the break and come back. Got plenty to play for.”

To say the All-Star break is coming at the right time for Golden State is an understatement. Through the first four months of the season, the Warriors have weathered almost everything a basketball team can conceivably handle. From injuries and inconsistent play to front office drama and trade rumors, it’s been an eventful year for an aging dynasty on its final legs.

But given all that’s happened, with the devastation of Butler’s ACL tear at the forefront, it feels like the Warriors feel comfortable with where they’re at, with an All-Star break and 27 games left to go.

“Obviously, we’ll have to incorporate Kristaps [Porzingis], get Steph back, and we feel like we can be a really good team. And I think our guys are showing why with the way they’re competing and moving the ball and playing together.”

When will Kristaps Porzingis debut and when will Steph Curry return?

The general plan is to use the week off to get Porzingis and Curry right for the Boston Celtics matchup, the very first game after the All-Star pause.

Since joining Golden State in the Jonathan Kuminga, Buddy Hield trade, the Warriors have slowly upped Porzingis’ activity. Achilles tendinitis and POTS have plagued Porzingis, affecting his availability, which is a risk factor in the trade. However, the Warriors maintain an optimistic outlook on Porzingis’ health, with Kerr stating that they would not have made this trade unless they were confident in keeping him healthy.

Through this week, Porzingis has made incremental progress to get back into basketball form. He began the week with individual work and an evaluation with Rick Celebrini, VP of Player Health and Performance, before moving on to three-on-three drills. And as of the writing of this article, Porzingis has gotten some five-on-five work in the halfcourt. As for Curry, who’s labored with patellofemoral pain syndrome (runner’s knee), Kerr said he remains day-to-day but continues to feel better each day.

Once Porzingis debuts and Curry returns, it will be a 27-game sprint to the finish line, with the hopes of climbing from the eighth seed and out of the play-in tournament. It’s a similar situation the Warriors find themselves in. Last season, after the Butler trade deadline acquisition, the Dubs found themselves at 25-26 and in danger of falling from the 10th seed in the West. However, they rallied and finished 23-8, earning themselves the seventh seed and a matchup against the Houston Rockets.

The vibe as the Warriors head for vacation

Obviously, they won’t have Butler for this latest post-All-Star break sprint on the horizon. But there seems to be an odd easiness around the team as they head for the tropical vacations. Maybe that’s what inbound trips to Cabo will do to your vibe, but their play as of late has given them some real confidence for the task ahead of them.

“I think everybody in this locker room has been working real hard,” De’Anthony Melton said as he reflected on this first portion of the season. “We’ve had three different teams this year. Some guys have had some bigger roles and had to step up when, you know, they expected it sometimes. But I think going into all star break, I was telling guys just to recoup. Recoup yourself, clear your mind. Just figure it out.”

In Curry and Butler’s absence, guys like Melton have stepped up and played some inspired basketball. To go down the list– Gui Santos has taken a real leap as of late with his energetic two-way play. Moses Moody turned himself into a real outside scoring threat, with 14 of his last 15 games in double figures. And Al Horford is finally healthy and limber, which has resulted in the stretch center they were hoping for when they signed him.

So even though they’ve gone 4-7 since Butler went down, the Warriors have shown enough grit, fight, and spirit to make themselves feel confident they can still be something this season.

“Success will come,” Kerr said, “if we continue the process we’ve been showing.”

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One of the few healthy Warriors mainstays in this one was Draymond Green, who had his hands full in trying to guard Spurs superstar Victor Wembanyama.

At one point, Green and Wembanyama became engaged in an intense physical battle that was emblematic of the tough game that was played between the two teams.

Draymond vs. Wemby pic.twitter.com/39z9PXuX6F

— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) February 12, 2026

The Warriors were missing Stephen Curry in this one, who has been ruled out for the team through the upcoming NBA All-Star break. Golden State got impressive contributions from players like Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski, but ultimately, the team fell apart down the stretch of the fourth quarter, despite leading by double digits throughout much of the game.

The Warriors will be desperately hoping that Curry will be healthy coming out of the All-Star break, along with big man Kristaps Porzingis, whom the team acquired from the Atlanta Hawks at the trade deadline in exchange for Buddy Hield and the disgruntled Jonathan Kuminga.

In theory, Porzingis figures to check a lot of boxes for the Warriors, providing them with some solid rim protection, as well as the ability to stretch the floor from well beyond the arc.

However, health has been a major concern for the Unicorn throughout his career, which has continued into this year with the Hawks, with illnesses and various injuries sidelining him for more games than he’s played.

In any case, the Warriors will now have some much-needed time off for the All-Star break before they next hit the floor next Thursday for a tough home game against the Boston Celtics.

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Hield had a funny response to the report via Instagram.

“They lying it was Jimmy,” Hield said.

Buddy Hield’s comment on IG pic.twitter.com/vUwnqjko41

— aly ✶ (@jinthirty) February 11, 2026

Buddy Hield and Jonathan Kuminga were traded to the Hawks ahead of last week’s trade deadline in exchange for Kristaps Porzingis. Kuminga was linked to Warriors trade rumors for months before he was sent to the Hawks. However, even in Jonathan’s absence from the Warriors, reports of the team’s fallout with its former veteran forward persist.

Why Jonathan Kuminga stormed out of a Warriors meeting

For many, a Warriors meeting with Steve Kerr and Jonathan Kuminga spelled the end of the veteran’s tenure with the only team he’d ever played for. Amidst Kuminga’s fifth season with the Warriors, the relationship between him and his head coach had run its course, according to ESPN’s Anthony Slater.

“Inside Kerr’s office that afternoon, exasperation boiled over. The discussion went from small picture to bigger picture. Frustrations were let out on both sides — Kerr voicing his displeasure with Kuminga’s lack of buy-in and competitiveness toward the team goals and Kuminga letting out his hurt about Kerr’s longtime lack of belief in him as a player,” Slater said.

Slater also noted that, “The meeting ended, sources familiar with the exchange said, with Kerr slamming his whiteboard in frustration.”

The Warriors meeting came on the heels of Kuminga falling out of Kerr’s rotation in December.

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Speaking on the latest episode of The Draymond Green Show, the Golden State Warriors veteran questioned Diabate’s actions during the sequence that led to multiple suspensions.

“He got mushed and then proceeded to act like he wanted to go at Jalen Duren, but when he went at Jalen Duren, people was kind of holding him back, but not really holding him back,” Green said. “So, if he wanted to get at Jalen Duren, he could have got at Jalen Duren. He didn’t really try to get there. That was along the baseline. As it spilled up the sideline, he continued to try to go at Jalen Duren. And he didn’t necessarily want to get there, but he acted like he was trying to get there. And it’ll be interesting to see because he’s going to get probably suspended for at least a game when quite honestly he didn’t do much.”

The incident occurred during Monday night’s matchup between Charlotte and Detroit, when tensions escalated following a physical exchange between Diabate and Duren. After being shoved in the face, Diabate appeared to respond as players from both teams converged near the baseline.

An overhead broadcast angle later showed Diabate throwing at least one punch toward Duren and attempting another before being restrained. The scuffle expanded as Hornets forward Miles Bridges entered the fray and struck Duren, prompting Pistons forward Isaiah Stewart to leave the bench area and confront Bridges.

Draymond Green reacts to Moussa Diabate, Miles Bridges suspensions

Green also referenced Diabate’s Michigan basketball background while noting that Bridges, a Michigan State product, stepped in to defend his Hornets teammate during the altercation.

The NBA subsequently issued suspensions to all four players involved. Diabate and Bridges each received four-game suspensions. Duren was suspended for two games, and Stewart was handed a seven-game suspension for leaving the bench and escalating the confrontation.

Despite the controversy, Diabate has been a key contributor to Charlotte’s recent surge. The 24-year-old center has helped guide the Hornets to a 15-9 record in games he has started this season. Across 50 appearances, he is averaging a career-high 8.2 points, 8.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists, and 1.0 blocks per game while shooting 63.2% from the field in 25.2 minutes per contest.

Charlotte (25-29) currently sits 10th in the Eastern Conference standings as it looks to regain momentum following the end of its nine-game winning streak. The Hornets are scheduled to face the Atlanta Hawks (26-29) on Wednesday at 7:00 p.m. ET before the league breaks for 2026 NBA All-Star Weekend at Intuit Dome in Los Angeles.

Green’s comments add another layer to an incident that has already drawn league discipline, while Charlotte attempts to move forward during a pivotal stretch of the season.

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Speaking on the latest episode of The Draymond Green Show, the Golden State Warriors veteran forward criticized organizations that prioritize draft positioning over development, saying young players caught in rebuilding strategies are often left without proper instruction.

“More often than not, you get the Isaiah Roby’s, you know, you get Jahlil Okafor’s, you get all of these guys that are a part of these tank jobs and they just fizzle out because they’re not taught proper techniques,” Green said.

“Then you get off of them, they go to another situation. They like, ‘Man, you’ve been league for four years. You don’t know X, Y, and Z.’ Well, no. I’ve been a part of a tank job.”

Green pointed specifically to former lottery pick Jahlil Okafor, who entered the league during the Philadelphia 76ers’ “Trust The Process” era. That stretch, built around accumulating high draft picks through losing seasons, also included players such as Nerlens Noel, Michael Carter-Williams and Markelle Fultz.

Green argued that extended losing environments can create bad habits and stunt growth, particularly for young players expected to carry heavy roles without veteran infrastructure.

“So, at some point, the NBA has to figure out a way, start taking these draft picks,” Green said. “If you’re tanking, your draft pick automatically drops down. If you suck, you suck. Then you should get the pick. But if you don’t really suck as bad as you suck and you’re just trying to stack the pick secretly, I’m gonna bomb a year to get that’s garbage. You’re teaching these kids how to lose.”

Draymond Green points to Thunder rebuild, Jazz decisions in tanking debate

Green acknowledged that tanking has produced successful outcomes in certain cases. The Oklahoma City Thunder executed a prolonged rebuild that ultimately led to a championship last summer after a seven-game victory over the Indiana Pacers. During that stretch, star guard Shai Gilgeous-Alexander missed extended time with injuries as the Thunder stockpiled draft assets. Green also cited Isaiah Roby, who spent time on those rebuilding rosters.

While conceding that Oklahoma City’s model “worked,” Green maintained that the broader league consequences remain problematic.

Recent games involving the Utah Jazz have renewed scrutiny around competitive integrity. After acquiring Jaren Jackson Jr. in a blockbuster trade with the Memphis Grizzlies, alongside Lauri Markkanen and Jusuf Nurkic, Utah started all three in back-to-back road games in Orlando and Miami. Each player logged 25 minutes through three quarters in both contests but did not play in the fourth quarter of either game.

In Orlando, the Jazz surrendered a 33-23 fourth quarter to the Orlando Magic and lost 120-117 after leading by 17 points. In Miami, Utah held on for a 115-111 victory despite similar substitution patterns.

The NBA previously adjusted its draft lottery system to discourage tanking, flattening the odds among the league’s worst teams. Green suggested additional measures may be necessary, including automatic draft penalties for teams perceived to be intentionally losing.

The Warriors (29-25) sit eighth in the Western Conference and host the San Antonio Spurs on Wednesday at 7:30 p.m. PT on ESPN as Green’s comments add to the league-wide debate about the balance between rebuilding strategies and maintaining competitive standards.

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While it had been known for some time that Kuminga and Warriors head coach Steve Kerr did not see eye-to-eye, which was evident by Kuminga’s uneven and, at times, nonexistent playing time. The situation seemed at its worst this season, when a healthy Kuminga did not play for 16 straight games, which had been believed to be completely Kerr’s decision. However, Warriors sources are now starting to point the finger at Kuminga for his alleged role in the DNP streak.

“Within that stretch, sources said Kuminga was asked to go onto the court four times, but he declined three mop-up duty opportunities and ruled himself out of the Thunder game on Jan. 2 because of back soreness after Kerr said he’d get a chunk of minutes with Curry, Butler and Green out,” ESPN’s Anthony Slater wrote.

“Members of the coaching staff and front office, team sources said, viewed that deactivation against the Thunder as the unofficial end, a sign he’d quit on the team.

“Kuminga, sources said, felt that they’d already quit on him and viewed the sudden request to go from ice cold and rotting on the end of the bench to a national TV date with the defending champions as a recipe to shame him. He was sore from weight work and declined their latest request to be the in-case-of-emergency option.”

After coming off the bench for the first time this season and playing 12 minutes, then a season low, against the San Antonio Spurs on Nov. 12, Kuminga completely fell out of Kerr’s rotation, and he did not see the floor again until Nov. 29. After four straight games played, during which he averaged 7.8 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.0 assists in 19.3 minutes per game, Kuminga played in just three more games with the Warriors over a nearly two-month span.

It had been speculated for some time that the two sides would eventually part, as trades had been rumored and Kuminga, as a restricted free agent, had held out for months last offseason in hopes of an offer sheet or trade. Ultimately, despite thoughts that he may sign his qualifying offer to become an unrestricted free agent in 2026, he and the Warriors agreed to a two-year, $46.8 million extension on the first day of training camp. A little more than four months later, Golden State traded Kuminga, as well as Buddy Hield, to the Hawks for Kristaps Porzingis.

Kuminga, who is dealing with a bone bruise in his left knee, has yet to debut for Atlanta, but he is expected to do so after the NBA All-Star break.

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Kerr claims he’s always been transparent with reporters and his players, including Kuminga, he said, per ESPN’s Anthony Slater.

“I don’t sugarcoat [my messaging],” Kerr told ESPN. “I’m honest with the media. I’m honest with players, and sometimes you have to tell players something they don’t want to hear. I think in general it’s a healthy way to coach. I think it can be very difficult for a young player finding his way. I’m sure I said a couple of things that hurt him, but I don’t know that I ever said anything that would be called inflammatory.”

One day, amid a stretch of DNPs in late December, Kuminga reportedly prepared for a trade that would take more than six weeks to materialize.

“Kuminga started to box up belongings in his Bay Area house, sources close to him said, anticipating a trade and essentially attempting to will it into existence,” Slater reported.

“He showed up when required and cheered for teammates at games, but he had his skills trainer, Ant Wells, in town to do individual training at different gyms away from the facility, feeling an increasing eye of distaste from Warriors management and coaches when he’d work on drills to improve his on-ball scoring and playmaking in front of them.

“He hates working out in this place,” one source said, pointing down toward the practice court.”

While Kerr envisioned Kuminga as a versatile, athletic role player who could run the floor, dunk, rebound, and defend at a high level, Jonathan felt he deserved a more prominent role with the Warriors.

“Neither happened to his liking, sources said, only hardening his belief that Kerr and general manager Mike Dunleavy would only ever view him as a run-fast, jump-high athlete without the requisite skill to be a lead option,” Slater added.

Kuminga has told ESPN that he envisions himself as a future All-Star with multiple selections.

Jonathan Kuminga left Warriors meeting due to Steve Kerr

For many, former Warriors forward Jonathan Kuminga’s meeting with Steve Kerr spelled the end of his time with the only NBA team he’s ever played for. A meeting in December ended in frustration when tempers between Kerr and Kuminga boiled over, as ESPN’s Anthony Slater reported.

“Inside Kerr’s office that afternoon, exasperation boiled over. The discussion went from small picture to bigger picture. Frustrations were let out on both sides — Kerr voicing his displeasure with Kuminga’s lack of buy-in and competitiveness toward the team goals and Kuminga letting out his hurt about Kerr’s longtime lack of belief in him as a player,” reported Anthony Slater of ESPN.

Slater also noted that “The meeting ended, sources familiar with the exchange said, with Kerr slamming his whiteboard in frustration.”

Kuminga, with a left knee bone bruise, has yet to make his debut for the Hawks.

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The Warriors took Kuminga at seventh overall back in the 2021 NBA Draft, and they passed on multiple future All-Stars in the process, including Orlando Magic forward Franz Wagner and Atlanta Hawks forward Jalen Johnson. Recently, Anthony Slater of ESPN broke down how close the Warriors were to selecting Wagner.

“There was a group of coaches on the staff who attended Wagner’s workout, team sources said, and came away adamant he’d be an ideal choice and fit in Kerr’s system,” reported Slater on ESPN.com.

However, “Then-assistant coach Kenny Atkinson ran the workout and maintained strong belief in Kuminga through his final days with the organization,” he added.

Team owner Joe Lacob was also reportedly in the Kuminga camp leading up to the draft.

“Lacob pushed for his preferred option, team sources said. Myers and Dunleavy, then an assistant GM, didn’t object,” reported Slater.

Kuminga showed some signs of promise during his tenure with Golden State, flashing his elite athleticism and defensive versatility. However, his inability to adapt to Kerr’s system over the years, as well as Kerr’s seeming willingness to let personal feuds dictate rotational decisions, ultimately left his Warriors tenure feeling like a disappointment.

Now, Kuminga will get a chance to play with the Hawks, who are looking to build a good supporting cast around Johnson. Meanwhile, the Warriors will be praying that Porzingis will be able to stay healthy, something that did not occur during his brief tenure in Atlanta.

The Warriors will next hit the floor on Wednesday night at home against the San Antonio Spurs.

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That move for the Hawks followed a highly publicized period of frustration, where the young forward found himself out of the rotation under Steve Kerr and eventually requested a trade to salvage his career.

While Kuminga focuses on his recovery, his departure signifies the end of a lengthy internal struggle within the Warriors organization regarding his development and trade value.

That departure from the Warriors organization brings to light the underlying conflict between coaching and ownership that delayed such a move for years, as detailed in a recent report from ESPN.

The report suggests that team owner Joe Lacob was a primary obstacle in potential trades, including a much-discussed deal for Alex Caruso at the 2024 deadline, because he wanted to be proved correct in his original assessment of the lottery pick.

While some within the franchise viewed the Caruso deal as a missed opportunity, others suggested the situation was more nuanced.

One source mentioned by ESPN noted, “Joe gets outsized blame,” and characterized the standoff as a “complex situation” involving a “ton of indecision” from several people.

While Kuminga works his way back to health in Atlanta, Caruso has reinforced his value as a defensive star for the Oklahoma City Thunder, recently helping them secure a victory over the Lakers.

Following a brief shouting match with LeBron James during that game, Caruso joked that they “were about to fight” before clarifying that they were merely clearing the air.

Caruso’s elite defense and veteran poise remain the exact traits Golden State was rumored to be targeting, yet Lacob’s persistent belief in Kuminga’s upside kept the young player in San Francisco until the relationship finally reached a breaking point this winter.

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Now, more information is coming to light on just how hot the simmering tensions between Kuminga and Kerr got.

One incident reportedly occurred on December 10, when Kerr met with Kuminga about his absence from a team-requested event, as well as the fact that they suspected him of taking too much food from the family room.

“Inside Kerr’s office that afternoon, exasperation boiled over. The discussion went from small picture to bigger picture. Frustrations were let out on both sides — Kerr voicing his displeasure with Kuminga’s lack of buy-in and competitiveness toward the team goals and Kuminga letting out his hurt about Kerr’s longtime lack of belief in him as a player,” reported Anthony Slater of ESPN.

Slater also noted that “The meeting ended, sources familiar with the exchange said, with Kerr slamming his white board in frustration.”

Tensions between Kerr and Kuminga had been building for a while, with many fans wondering why the talented forward was seeing such little playing time despite the lack of talent elsewhere on the roster.

Now, he’ll have a chance to show off his skills with the Hawks, another team in need of some firepower on the wings at both ends of the floor.

Meanwhile, the Warriors will be hoping that Porzingis is able to stay healthy for them for the rest of this season, as he would, in theory, check a lot of boxes for the team on both offense and defense.

The Warriors will next take the floor on Wednesday vs the San Antonio Spurs.

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