2. Warriors injuries
In lieu of the Rockets massive win streak coming to an end, it seemed as if the Warriors were finally able to catch a break. For the first time in weeks — despite being less than two games back— it seemed as if the Warriors had a shot to catch Houston and regain the first seed in the West. However, Steph Curry picked up an injury, along with some supporting players and Golden State’s luck ran out quickly. But the Warriors injury report as of late is like a Billy Mays commercial, because wait — there’s more!
Klay Thompson recently suffered a fractured right thumb that will keep him sidelined for a short period of time. The Warriors hope to have the 28-year-old back within two weeks, at the latest, however. Thompson had only missed one game up to this point, but he can miss as many as seven with his thumb injury. Warriors coach Steve Kerr called Thompson’s injury a positive as he admits his shooting guard looked a bit fatigued. Curry is set to return within a matter of days, according to reports.
Until Thompson and Curry’s return, the Warriors will just have to settle for Kevin Durant and company. Poor Golden State. The Warriors managed a win without three of its biggest stars (Curry, Thompson, Draymond Green) on Wednesday night as they edged out the Lakers behind Durant’s 26 points and Nick Young’s 18. Luckily for Golden State, it only faces off against one squad with a record over .500 for the next 10 days before the schedule gets a bit tougher down the home stretch.