Stephen Curry Expected to Return for Warriors Against Utah Jazz
Stephen Curry is expected to play tonight against the Utah Jazz, with the Golden State Warriors listing him as probable for Wednesday’s game on January 28, 2026, in Salt Lake City. The superstar guard has been dealing with soreness in his right knee, but the team medical staff believes he is ready to return to action after taking necessary precautions.
Curry's Injury Status and Recovery Timeline
Stephen Curry sat out Monday’s loss to the Minnesota Timberwolves because of right patellofemoral inflammation. This medical issue involves irritation around the kneecap area and developed after a stretch of heavy minutes during recent games. The Warriors chose rest as a precautionary measure rather than risking further complications.
For the Utah game, Curry’s status has significantly improved. He is officially listed as probable on the NBA’s official injury report, meaning the team expects him to play unless something changes during pre-game preparations. Teammate Draymond Green is also probable with left-back soreness, providing additional support for the Warriors lineup.
Understanding Curry's Knee Condition
The knee problem began during a routine workout session and carried into subsequent games, but the Golden State Warriors medical team has not described it as serious. There is no indication of ligament or cartilage damage according to team reports. The condition has been specifically labeled as inflammation and general soreness that responds well to treatment and rest.
Golden State has been trying to manage Stephen Curry’s workload where possible throughout the season. With Jimmy Butler III out for the season due to a torn ACL and Seth Curry sidelined with sciatic-nerve irritation, Steph has naturally taken on more offensive responsibility. Missing the Minnesota game was purely about caution rather than indicating any long-term concern about his health.
Curry's Historical Performance Against Utah Jazz
Utah has struggled defensively this season, particularly on the perimeter where they allow a high number of three-point attempts. This defensive tendency plays perfectly into Curry’s offensive strengths as one of the greatest shooters in NBA history.
In two earlier games against the Jazz this season, both played in San Francisco, Curry scored an impressive 31 points each time. He made 12 three-pointers across those games on 29 attempts, demonstrating his effectiveness against their defensive schemes. He enters tonight’s contest averaging approximately 27 points per game and roughly 4.5 made three-pointers per contest this season.
Warriors' Injury Situation and Rotation Impact
The Golden State Warriors remain relatively thin in terms of roster depth. Jonathan Kuminga is out with a left-knee bone bruise, while Seth Curry continues to be sidelined with left sciatic-nerve irritation. L.J. Cryer is questionable with left-hamstring tightness, which could further limit guard options for head coach Steve Kerr.
Curry’s return helps significantly settle the Warriors' offensive schemes. His exceptional shooting creates valuable spacing on the court, reduces pressure on younger players, and gives Golden State a reliable scoring option late in possessions when plays break down.
Game Expectations and Final Outlook
Unless something unexpected occurs during pre-game warm-ups, Stephen Curry is fully expected to play and start against the Utah Jazz. The probable listing reflects genuine confidence from the Warriors organization about his recovery progress. If he takes the floor as anticipated, Golden State will lean on him heavily to close out their current road trip successfully.
The Warriors close their road trip still facing depth challenges, which makes Curry’s availability particularly important for their chances against a competitive Utah team. He did not play in the previous game against Minnesota, but nothing in his recovery process since then suggests any significant setback in his condition.
