This setback poses a challenge for the Warriors, and the extent of the issue hinges on the eventual definition of the term “weeks.”

Stephen Curry is reported to have sustained ligament damage in the shin area just below the knee, and although an official return date has not been provided, Shams Charania of The Athletic notes that he will be sidelined for an indeterminate number of “weeks.” The ambiguity of this timeframe is crucial for the Warriors, as the difference between a three-week absence, including the All-Star Break, and a more extended six to eight-week recovery could significantly impact the team’s playoff prospects.

Monty Poole of NBC Sports Bay Area indicates that the Warriors are hopeful for Curry’s return shortly after the All-Star break. Jeff Stotts of In Street Clothes notes that this injury is atypical for the NBA but estimates a month-long recovery.

In the immediate future, Curry will miss the All-Star Game, where he was chosen as a starter by fans. NBA Commissioner Adam Silver is expected to promote a reserve, likely Ja Morant, who finished third in fan voting, to the starting lineup and name an injured replacement for the team, potentially Devin Booker, De’Aaron Fox, or Anthony Edwards.

Looking ahead, the Warriors face a challenging situation without Curry for an extended period. Curry’s contributions, averaging 27.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 6.4 assists per game, are crucial, as the team outperforms opponents by 5 points per 100 possessions with him on the court. With the Warriors currently just one game above .500 and battling to avoid the play-in round, an extended absence for Curry poses a significant threat to a team struggling to find its rhythm this season.