Is Steph Curry playing against Lakers?

That question has hovered over the Golden State Warriors all week, and it remains unanswered as Saturday night approaches. With a nationally televised matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers looming, the status of Stephen Curry is the biggest storyline surrounding a game that already carries plenty of weight in the Western Conference race.

Curry has missed two straight games after exiting last week’s loss to Detroit with a knee issue, and while there is optimism inside the organization, nothing has been locked in yet. For fans tuning in, the uncertainty adds tension to a rivalry that never really needs help creating drama.

What happened to Curry?

The injury occurred midway through the third quarter against the Pistons when Curry appeared uncomfortable after pushing off his right leg on a defensive possession. He briefly tried to stay on the floor before heading to the locker room, where he was later ruled out for the remainder of the game.

Golden State diagnosed the issue as patellofemoral pain syndrome, often referred to as runner’s knee. It is a condition that involves pain and inflammation around the kneecap and can be especially tricky for players whose games rely on constant movement and quick changes of direction.

The latest update heading into Saturday

Ahead of the trip to Los Angeles, Curry spoke briefly with ESPN’s Anthony Slater and offered a cautiously encouraging update. He said the knee is trending in the right direction and described it as something that should heal.

There is still no official timetable for his return, which means his availability against the Los Angeles Lakers remains uncertain. As has often been the case in recent seasons, the Warriors appear more focused on the long view than forcing their star back too soon.

How the Warriors have managed without him

Since Curry went down, Golden State has split its two games without him. The Warriors struggled at home in a loss to Philadelphia before responding with a gritty road win over Phoenix. The difference was obvious.

Without Curry, the offense becomes more deliberate and far less threatening from deep. Defensive pressure ramps up on everyone else, and late-game possessions feel heavier. It is a reminder of how much Curry still drives everything Golden State wants to do.

More: Is Luka Doncic playing against the Lakers?

Why this game matters even more

The timing of Curry’s injury has only magnified its impact. The Warriors are already without Jimmy Butler for the season after an ACL injury, and their pursuit of a blockbuster addition at the trade deadline came up short. The front office did add help by acquiring Kristaps Porzingis, but Curry remains the engine that determines how far this team can go.

Golden State enters the matchup at 28-24, sitting eighth in the Western Conference, with little separation between playoff hopefuls. Facing LeBron James and the Lakers at Crypto.com Arena without Curry would be a tough ask in a game that could matter in the standings come April.

So, will he play?

As of now, the answer is still unclear. Curry’s comments suggest progress, but the Warriors have given no indication they will rush a decision. His status will likely come down to how the knee responds during pregame warmups.

Tip-off is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. PT on ABC. Whether Steph Curry is on the floor or watching from the bench, his presence will loom over every possession until the final word is given.

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