The Golden State Warriors and NBA fans alike received a tough blow this week as head coach Steve Kerr officially ruled Stephen Curry out of the 2026 NBA All-Star Game in Los Angeles.
The 37-year-old superstar has been battling a lingering right knee issue, identified as patellofemoral pain syndrome (often called “runner’s knee”), which has already forced him to miss the last four games.
No All-Star Weekend for the Chef
Curry was set to represent the Warriors and Team USA in the showcased event, but the team is prioritizing his long-term health for a playoff push over an exhibition appearance. Kerr confirmed the decision on Monday before the Warriors’ game against the Memphis Grizzlies, stating that the break is necessary for Curry to rehabilitate without the risk of flaring up the injury.
Curry joins Oklahoma City’s Shai Gilgeous-Alexander (abdomen) as the second major star to withdraw from Sunday’s festivities. While Alperen Sengun has been named as SGA’s replacement for Team World, the NBA has yet to announce who will take Curry’s roster spot on Team USA.
Immediate Impact: Warriors Schedule
In addition to the All-Star Game, Kerr confirmed that Curry will miss Golden State’s final two contests before the break:
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Monday, Feb 9 vs. Memphis Grizzlies
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Wednesday, Feb 11 vs. San Antonio Spurs
This extended absence is critical for a Warriors team that has struggled to find its rhythm without him. Golden State currently holds a 5-9 record in games Curry has missed this season. With key acquisition Jimmy Butler already lost for the season due to a torn ACL, the offensive burden on Curry has been immense, likely contributing to the overuse injury.
The Target Return Date
The silver lining for Dub Nation is that this shutdown is strategic. By sitting out this week and the All-Star weekend, Curry gains a significant rest window.
The team is targeting February 19 for his return, when the Warriors host the Boston Celtics in their first game after the break. Kerr described Curry’s status as “day-to-day” and expressed hope that this extended rehabilitation period will allow him to finish the season strong.
For now, the Warriors will have to navigate a tricky week without their two-time MVP, hoping that a fully rested Curry can salvage their postseason ambitions when he returns later this month.
