Warriors Face Wait on Stephen Curry’s Availability vs. Heat

The Golden State Warriors fell to the Orlando Magic on Tuesday, Nov. 18, 113-121. To make matters worse, superstar guard Stephen Curry appeared to re-tweak his ankle, less than a week after hurting it when facing the San Antonio Spurs.

Curry discussed his ankle soreness and his overall fitness following a bout of sickness when speaking to the media during his postgame news conference.

“(I’m) over the sickness, but we played four straight road games,” Curry said. “Still dealing with it a little bit. I feel like myself, but i’ve still got some little symptoms and then a little sore ankle that was a couple of games ago. (I tweaked it) a little bit tonight, but those are the things that you’re just trying to play through and trying to figure out how to continue to build momentum.” 

Curry was then asked if he would be playing against the Miami Heat on Wednesday, Nov. 19, which is the second night of a back-to-back.

“We’re just looking at how that (ankle) responds, because I did it again first half tonight. I don’t think it’s anything crazy, but see how I respond to the flight and how I feel tomorrow.” 

The Warriors’ loss to the Magic leaves them with a 9-7 record over their first 16 games of the season.

Jimmy Butler Doesn’t Commit To Facing Heat

Jimmy Butler‘s potential return to Miami will be a hot topic heading into Wednesday’s game. However, when speaking with the media following Golden State’s loss to Orlando, he remained coy over whether he would be suiting up for Steve Kerr’s team.

“Who knows?” Butler said. We’ll see how we feel when we wake up. That’s how it goes.” 

Butler had a messy exit from the Heat last season, joining the Warriors near the Feb. 5 trade deadline. He’s been highly productive for Golden State to begin the season, averaging 20.1 points, 5.5 rebounds and 4.7 assists on 53.5% shooting from the field and 45.5% from deep.

The Warriors Need All Hands on Deck

After a strong start to the season, Golden State’s schedule has taken its toll. Steve Kerr’s team needs to rebuild some momentum, rather than allowing the pendulum to swing between wins and losses every one or two games.

Erik Spoelstra has re-invented the Heat this season. They’re playing with an increased pace and tempo, they’re attacking in new ways and their defense has been formidable for stretches. Therefore, the Warriors need as many contributors as possible on Wednesday, especially if Curry is out with an ankle issue.

Butler could hold the keys against Miami and would undoubtedly be one of the best players on the floor. So, if he’s healthy, Golden State should certainly be looking to lean on him, regardless of the hostile reception he could receive.

The Warriors came into the season with the notion of contending for a championship. Building some early-season momentum will be key for them to build winning habits and keep pushing forward in their overall development. A win over Miami could be just what the franchise needs right now, and that should be more than enough reason for Butler to suit up.

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