Stephen Curry Ruled Out for Warriors vs Lakers Showdown
The Golden State Warriors will be without their superstar guard Stephen Curry for their highly anticipated matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers on February 28, 2026. The game, scheduled to take place at Chase Center, will proceed without Curry, who continues to be sidelined by a persistent right knee issue that has kept him off the court for the entire month of February.
Details on Curry's Injury and Recovery Timeline
Stephen Curry is specifically dealing with right patellofemoral pain syndrome, a medical condition that causes significant pain around the kneecap area. This type of injury typically worsens with athletic movements such as cutting, quick directional changes, and extended playing time. The Warriors' medical and coaching staff have opted for a patient and cautious approach, choosing not to rush Curry back into action despite his efforts to return to practice.
A recent setback in his rehabilitation process forced the team to slow down his recovery timeline once again. Even for a marquee game against a rival like the Lakers, the organization is sticking firmly to their long-term health plan. There is currently no definitive return date established for Curry, though expectations within the team suggest he could be back later in the season, but only once his knee has fully stabilized and healed.
Complete Golden State Warriors Injury Report
The Warriors are grappling with multiple absences for this crucial game. The official injury report for February 28, 2026, lists the following players:
- Stephen Curry - Out (right patellofemoral pain syndrome)
- Seth Curry - Out (left sciatic nerve irritation)
- Jimmy Butler III - Out (recovering from right ACL surgery)
- Kristaps Porzingis - Questionable (illness)
- Draymond Green - Probable (low back injury management)
On the Lakers' side, forward Rui Hachimura is listed as doubtful due to an illness, and several bench players will be unavailable because they are on assignment with the G League.
How the Warriors Are Adapting Without Curry
In the absence of Stephen Curry, the Warriors are implementing a strategy that spreads offensive and defensive responsibilities across the roster. Guards Moses Moody and Brandin Podziemski are taking on larger roles in scoring and facilitating ball movement. In the frontcourt, veterans Al Horford and Kristaps Porzingis, when available, provide crucial spacing and interior presence.
Defensively, players like De’Anthony Melton and Gary Payton II are assigned to handle the tougher perimeter matchups. The overall team dynamic shifts significantly without Curry, leaning more heavily on collective passing, defensive intensity, and shared offensive creation while awaiting his eventual return.
The Warriors' roster and rotation adjustments reflect a team prioritizing health and long-term success over short-term gains, even in high-stakes matchups against conference rivals like the Lakers.
