What is Steph Curry's Timeline to Return to Warriors? Steve Kerr Gives Injury Update

Golden State Warriors star point guard Stephen Curry is making progress from a thigh contusion and could return to the lineup next week, according to head coach Steve Kerr.

Kerr told reporters that "it's realistic" Curry will return next Friday against the Minnesota Timberwolves, per The Athletic's Anthony Slater.

Curry, 37, was ruled out for around a week in late November after suffering a quad contusion, though he reportedly avoided any major injury. He suffered the knock during the fourth quarter Nov. 26's 104-100 loss to the Houston Rockets.

Curry Hurt

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He also dealt with some right ankle issues in November.

When healthy Curry has been fantastic, averaging 27.9 points and 4.0 assists per game while shooting 39.1 percent from three. The 12-time All-Star, four-time champion, two-time MVP, two-time scoring champion and four-time first-team All-NBA selection hasn't shown signs of decline just yet.

The Warriors, on the other hand, didn't get off to the hottest start this season. At the time of Curry's injury the Dubs had dropped to a disappointing 10-10 on the season after high hopes, with a full offseason of Jimmy Butler to get further acclimated to the team.

Granted, a brutal early schedule didn't help (and probably contributed to some of the team's injury issues, with Jonathan Kuminga also dealing with knee tendinitis in late November).

Nothing is more important than keeping Curry healthy. With him, the Warriors have a shot to make some noise in the Western Conference. Without him, they are in serious trouble.