Stephen Curry's injury recovery receives huge boost from the NBA

The Golden State Warriors defeated the Minnesota Timberwolves in Game 1 of the Western Conference Semifinal round. That's good news. The bad news is that Stephen Curry suffered a hamstring injury in the first half and did not return. 

On Wednesday, the MRI results came back, and it revealed that Curry suffered a Grade 1 hamstring strain. In turn, Shams Charania reported that Curry is out for Game 2 and is going to miss "at least" one week. 

So, in a perfect world, Curry would be back on May 14. which is the same day as Game 5 in Minnesota (if needed), although it's unlikely he would play in that game. However, there is some silver lining potentially. 

The first five games of the series are all two days apart: 

• Game 1: May 6
• Game 2: May 8 
• Game 3: May 10
• Game 4: May 12
• Game 5: May 14

Then, there is a four-day gap before Game 6, which is set to be played at Golden State on May 18. 

The reason why seems to be due to the Golden State Valkyrie playing at the Chase Center on May 16, so the NBA gave more time to fix things since they share the same arena. 

That means Curry could return for a Game 6 or a Game 7, if the series even goes that far. 

"Steph is dealing with a Grade 1 strain. If he misses the average time lost, a return in Game 6 or Game 7 is plausible," Jeff Stotts wrote. 

Steph is dealing with a Grade 1 strain. If he misses the average time lost, a return in Game 6 or Game 7 is plausible. https://t.co/v3WyJ1drJd

The Warriors getting the win in Game 1 is a big boost, and the four-day gap between Games 5 and 6 is another important wrinkle. But, it all depends on how Curry recovers. 

MORE NBA NEWS: 

• Donovan Mitchell masterpiece spoiled by heartbreaking ending
• Caitlin Clark was more excited than anyone about Tyrese Haliburton's game winner
• Anthony Edwards given extra motivation for the series against the Warriors from a WWE superstar
• Why Anthony Edwards said he wants to face Golden State in the playoffs