Warriors Injury Update: Chris Paul’s Return Date Revealed, as Stephen Curry and Co Get Massive Playoffs Boost

In another episode of the Golden State Warriors blowing early leads, the Bay Area team suffered a heartbreaking loss to the defending champions. After starting the second half of the season strong with back-to-back victories against the Charlotte Hornets and the Los Angeles Lakers, they lost 119-103 to the Denver Nuggets on Sunday night. However, they hope to bounce back when they meet the rebuilding Washington Wizards next. Ahead of Tuesday’s game, the Warriors have received a positive update, which could further boost their chances.

Chris Paul, who fractured his non-shooting hand earlier in January, is off the injury report and will be available for the team’s next matchup against the Wizards, as per Shams Charania of The Athletic.

The ‘Point God’ fractured his left hand midway through the third quarter in the Warriors’ victory over the Detroit Pistons on Jan. 5, causing him to miss 21 games. The injury occurred when Paul collided with Jaden Ivey while going for a long rebound after missing a three-pointer. Following a successful surgery, his fifth on the left hand in his career, on Jan. 8, he participated in light workouts and is now set for a complete return on Tuesday.

How will Chris Paul’s return impact the Warriors?

Paul’s return couldn’t have come at a better time. The Warriors have just started to find some rhythm, and they’ll need all the help they can get as they set out on a grueling four-game East Coast road trip. With Paul back in the lineup, Stephen Curry will get enough rest to be fresh for the postseason. Speaking of Paul’s role in the team after his return from injury, Steve Kerr said, “Chris will play all of the non-Steph minutes, and he’ll be out there with Steph as well. It’s easier for us to put Steph off the ball and take some of the wear and tear off of him when Chris is out there.”

Since Klay Thompson has assumed the role of a Sixth Man, their second unit will get a significant boost with two veterans leading the charge. Moreover, Thompson will also benefit from Paul’s playmaking and ability to generate good looks for his teammates.

The 19-year-veteran has been a crucial piece off the bench. Although Paul is averaging a career-low 8.9 points per game, these statistics fail to reflect the invaluable experience and leadership he brings to the team. With him in the lineup, the Warriors now have all the pieces they need to make a playoff push. Do you think the Warriors can make a deep run into the postseason? Let us know in the comments!

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