The Golden State Warriors may finally be catching a break on the injury front, as head coach Steve Kerr provided updates on two key players ahead of Saturday’s matchup against the New Orleans Pelicans. De’Anthony Melton, returning from a torn ACL, is edging closer to game action, while Steph Curry’s recent leg injury appears far less serious than initially feared. The developments could shift the Warriors’ fortunes as the team navigates a season full of highs, lows, and roster uncertainty.
Melton, 27, has been rehabbing with the Warriors and their G-League affiliate in Santa Cruz since re-signing as a free agent this past September. After over a year of recovery, the combo guard participated in a scrimmage against Santa Cruz players Wednesday and joined full team practice Friday at Chase Center. Kerr indicated that while Melton won’t see action during the current home stand, he could play during the upcoming road trip.
“He won’t play the remainder of the home stand, but he’ll go on the road trip, and there’s a chance he’ll play on the trip,” Kerr said. Last season, Melton averaged 10.3 points per game in just six appearances before his knee injury sidelined him, leaving the Warriors scrambling for backcourt depth. His return comes at a critical moment, as the team still faces absences among its top stars.
Curry, the heart and soul of the franchise, left Wednesday’s game against the Rockets with a left quad strain, raising immediate concern among fans. However, tests have revealed the injury to be minor, and the superstar is expected to be re-evaluated in a week. Kerr expressed visible relief about the news.
“It’s a big relief,” Kerr said. “You always worry when Steph goes down that it’s going to be something that’s going to keep him out for a while. So the fact that we’re taking it by the week and that it doesn’t appear to be anything too serious, it’s a great sign.” Curry was present at Friday’s practice, participating in film sessions and treatment but sitting out physical drills.
In addition to Melton, the Warriors could receive reinforcements from Jonathan Kuminga, who has missed the last seven games with bilateral patellar tendinitis. The forward has been cleared for practice in recent days, and Kerr expects Kuminga to be listed as “questionable” for Saturday’s matchup against the Pelicans.
“He’s practiced now, a couple straight, maybe three straight days, so trending upward,” Kerr said. His return could provide a much-needed boost to the Warriors’ small forward rotation, adding athleticism, defensive versatility, and scoring potential.
Meanwhile, center Al Horford, sidelined with sciatica, missed practice due to a personal matter and will be re-evaluated following the New Orleans game. Kerr also highlighted the return of former Warriors big man Kevon Looney, who will play his first game back in the Bay Area since departing as a free agent over the summer. Drafted by Golden State in 2015, Looney helped the team win three titles and served as a key locker room presence throughout his tenure.
With Melton, Curry, and potentially Kuminga returning to the lineup, the Warriors hope to stabilize a roster that has faced injury challenges and inconsistent performances. Kerr’s measured optimism reflects the delicate balance of managing player health while trying to remain competitive in the loaded Western Conference.
As Golden State prepares to host the Pelicans, fans will be watching closely to see how quickly these key pieces can integrate and impact the team’s play. The combination of returning talent, veteran leadership, and strategic coaching could mark a turning point for a Warriors squad eager to reassert its dominance — but the clock is ticking, and every game matters.
The question remains: will the Warriors capitalize on their returning stars, or will injuries and inconsistencies continue to derail their season? Saturday’s matchup may offer the first glimpse of answers.
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