Warriors' Stephen Curry Likely Back Friday vs Timberwolves

Stephen Curry is on the mend from a thigh (quad) contusion, and coach Steve Kerr called it "it's realistic" that Curry could return next Friday against the Timberwolves. At 37, Curry has still been elite — 27.9 points and 39.1% from three — and his availability matters because the Warriors slipped to 10-10 amid a tough early schedule and other aches around the roster. Merlin sees the pulse of the team: Curry’s return would lift the offense and stabilize a club that “has a shot to make some noise” in the West, but this season will hinge on careful load management and health around players like Jonathan Kuminga. If Curry comes back smartly and stays steady, Golden State’s championship window stays open; if not, the climb grows much steeper.