Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has confirmed that Curry will play in the team’s 2025-2026 NBA preseason opener against the Los Angeles Lakers this Sunday, 5th October, at the Chase Centre, but on a minute restriction.
“I talked to Steph today and Rick [Celebrini]. [Steph] is going to play 15 minutes probably,” Kerr told reporters on Friday.
While Dub Nation is eager to see the league’s most lethal shooter back on the court, Kerr made it clear that managing Curry’s workload early on is the priority.
Steve Kerr Confirms Steph Curry’s return
Curry is no stranger to carrying the offensive burden. Last season marked his 14th year averaging over 32 minutes per game. But with the regular season still weeks away, Golden State is choosing caution over exertion.
The game against the Lakers offers fans their first glimpse of the refreshed Warriors lineup, but it’ll be more of a teaser than a full-length feature.
Not Just Steph
Kerr also noted that other key players, Draymond Green and Jimmy Butler, are under similar restrictions.
“And the same plan will be there for Draymond and Jimmy, pending how they are feeling on Sunday. We are going to scrimmage tomorrow as well. We will have to talk to the guys before the game Sunday, but 15 minutes sounds about right for that group, if they are playing,” Kerr added.
This is the first time Butler, acquired in a headline-making trade back in February, will wear a Warriors jersey in front of the home crowd. Fans are buzzing, but the coaching staff is staying grounded.
Managing Minutes, Maximising Impact
The Warriors have long grappled with the challenge of staying afloat during Curry’s bench time. It’s a problem that continues to linger. And this season, the coaching staff is banking on strategic rest over heroic endurance.
“With the Warriors looking to make another championship push, keeping Curry fresh may be their smartest play yet.”
This preseason is less about the scoreboard and more about rhythm, chemistry, and above all, health.
Bigger Picture: A Long Road Ahead
Preseason or not, every minute matters. Not just for Curry, but for how the team gels with Butler’s addition and how well they can manage rotations without over-relying on their 37-year-old superstar.
While 15 minutes may seem like a drop in the ocean, it’s a calculated move. Golden State knows it needs Curry at full strength when the games truly begin to count. Until then, fans will have to enjoy the flashes and trust the process.
Stay tuned. This team might just be cooking up something special.
