The Golden State Warriors confront a significant hurdle in their 2025 NBA season as their superstar, Stephen Curry, remains sidelined for the crucial home game against the New Orleans Pelicans tonight. This marks the fifth consecutive game the two-time MVP will miss, dealing a heavy blow to the team's offensive firepower and overall rhythm.
Stephen Curry's Injury Details and Timeline
The core of the Warriors' struggles stems from a right quadriceps contusion and muscle strain suffered by Stephen Curry during the game against the Houston Rockets on November 27, 2025. An MRI later confirmed the injury, forcing him to exit the game limping. The medical team has officially ruled him out for the Pelicans matchup on November 29, 2025, and expects him to be sidelined for at least a full week.
While the diagnosis is less severe than a knee or ankle problem, the impact is profound. Curry is not projected for an immediate return, with a reevaluation scheduled for next week. His absence leaves a massive void, as he has been averaging an impressive 27.9 points per game. The team's record without him starkly illustrates his importance, having managed only 1 win against 4 losses during this period.
Warriors' Broader Injury Crisis and Roster Challenges
The problem for Golden State extends beyond just their leading scorer. The injury report reveals a squad stretched to its limits. Forward Jonathan Kuminga is listed as questionable as he battles bilateral knee patellar tendonitis, though his participation in recent practices offers a glimmer of hope.
On a more positive note, Gary Payton II is probable and expected to play despite a sprained left ankle. However, the team will definitely be without the experience of Al Horford (sciatic nerve irritation) and De'Anthony Melton (rehab from knee surgery). This cascade of injuries has thrust role players and younger members of the roster into the spotlight, demanding they step up to carry a heavier offensive and defensive load.
Pelicans' Opportunity and Game Expectations
Visiting the Chase Center are the New Orleans Pelicans, who arrive with a challenging 3-16 record. Their key asset, Zion Williamson, is available to play without any restrictions. Williamson's presence in the paint poses a major threat to a Warriors team missing its primary scorer and dealing with a depleted rotation.
For the Warriors, this game becomes a critical test of their resilience and depth. The focus will shift to stronger defensive execution and finding consistent secondary scoring options. As the season is still taking shape, Golden State must find a way to steady its performance through this difficult phase until key players, especially Stephen Curry, can make a healthy return to the court.
