2018 NBA Playoffs: Golden State Warriors vs. New Orleans Pelicans preview
1. When will Stephen Curry play?
These are the words on the lips of every coach, every player and every fan. Two-time MVP Stephen Curry has not played since March 23 with a Grade 2 MCL sprain, appearing in just 51 games altogether for the Golden State Warriors this season.
The exact date of Curry’s return is still unknown, with head coach Steve Kerr telling reporters Sunday that Curry was not going to play anytime soon. He is set to be re-evaluated on Friday, one day before Game 1 against the New Orleans Pelicans.
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The Warriors are not bereft of talent, with three All-Stars healthy and suiting up even with Curry sidelined. Kevin Durant has averaged 28.2 points per game in the postseason playing without Curry, leading Golden State to a victory in five games.
But Curry unlocks everything that is special about the Warriors offensively, forcing defenses to defend out beyond the 3-point arc. With Curry back, the Pelicans have to defend two elite guards in addition to Durant at forward, and may elect for a switch-heavy scheme that pulls Anthony Davis away from the paint. There is never an easy answer against the Warriors.
If Curry cannot come back early in the series, that sows hope in a Pelicans team that is not favored, even with its demolition of the Trail Blazers. The Pelicans can beat this slower version of the Warriors if the cards break just right.