Injury Concerns for NBA Stars
In a pivotal moment for two of the NBA’s biggest stars, Luka Doncic of the Los Angeles Lakers and Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors are both dealing with injuries that may affect their participation in next weekend’s All-Star Game. Doncic is currently considered day-to-day due to a mild hamstring strain sustained during a victory over Philadelphia on Thursday. Meanwhile, Curry is facing the prospect of missing the upcoming exhibition along with several games due to a knee injury.
Updates on Doncic’s Condition
Ahead of a key matchup between the Warriors and Lakers scheduled for Saturday night, Lakers head coach JJ Redick provided updates on Doncic’s condition. He stated that an MRI following the incident revealed no significant damage, which suggests the injury may not keep Doncic sidelined for long. Redick believes that Doncic, who is eager to make his sixth All-Star appearance, will do everything possible to participate in both the All-Star Game and the crucial tilt against Dallas just before the break.
“He plays if he’s able to play,”
Redick commented, emphasizing Doncic’s determination.
Doncic’s Stellar Season
The 26-year-old Doncic is having an outstanding season, currently leading the league with an average of 32.8 points per game and standing second in assists with 8.6 per game, while also contributing 7.8 rebounds. His stellar performance earned him the Western Conference Player of the Month award for January, during which he recorded averages of 34.0 points, 9.1 assists, and 7.2 rebounds. He has been slated as a starter for the All-Star Game scheduled at Intuit Dome in Inglewood on February 15.
Curry’s Injury Outlook
Conversely, the outlook is not as bright for Curry, who Warriors head coach Steve Kerr labeled as doubtful for the upcoming contest against the Memphis Grizzlies on Tuesday due to his ongoing knee issue. Kerr acknowledged that it is increasingly likely Curry will not return until after the All-Star break. Curry, who is in his 17th season and averaging 27.2 points and 4.8 assists, has already missed several games due to this injury. Before taking the court against the Lakers, the Warriors will have just one more game following their encounter with Memphis.
“We’re just going to take it day by day,”
Kerr stated thoughtfully, as both teams prepare for this significant stretch of the season.