Why Seth Curry isn’t playing for Warriors after signing contract to join brother Steph in Golden State

The Golden State Warriors begin their 2025-26 NBA regular season on Tuesday night against the Los Angeles Lakers.

And this offseason, the Warriors signed Seth Curry, Steph's brother. It seemed like it'd be a chance for them to play together in the league for the first time.

But on this night, and on the nights in the near future, Seth won't be playing.

There's a reason, and it makes sense, but it's still delaying that cool moment when the Curry brothers can join together in the Warriors' backcourt.

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Why isn't Seth Curry playing for Warriors?

Seth Curry isn't actually under contract with the Warriors right now. He's a free agent.

Yes, that's a change from earlier this offseason.

The Warriors signed Seth to a free agent contract, but they knew all along what was coming next. They didn't play him at all in the preseason, because they knew they'd have to waive him before opening night.

The reason is the second apron of the luxury tax system. If Seth was on the roster at his veteran's minimum salary all season, it'd push the Warriors just above the second apron, which greatly limits roster flexibility.

When will Seth Curry play for Warriors?

Seth Curry has to be away for at least a few weeks.

NBA insider Marc Stein reports that Seth can sign on Nov. 11 to keep the Warriors under the second apron, although they could wait a little longer than that just to be sure.

It's not exactly clear whether Seth is around the facility at all in the meantime, but he's surely working out and staying in good shape. When the Warriors are ready to properly navigate the salary cap with Seth Curry on their roster, he'll come aboard and be a key bench contributor behind his superstar brother.

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