In his 16th season, Stephen Curry is showing signs of inconsistency. No, nothing has affected his performance, but the Warrior leader’s name is now appearing more often on the injury list than on the roster. If this had happened last season, it would have been seen as a crisis for Steve Kerr. However, the Dubs nation has a savior in the disguise of Buddy Hield in the team, whose brilliance has left a solid impression on the head coach.

During the team’s practice session earlier today, when Kerr was asked about the newcomer’s impact, he spoke highly of the 31-year-old. Explaining what made him an integral part of the team, Kerr said, “I think his energy, his positivity, his joy, every day is a great day with Buddy.”

Kerr highlighted that Hield’s positive mental state shows especially on nights when his shots don’t hit the target. “It doesn’t impact his effort or his energy at all,” the HC added. “He’s had a couple games so far out of our 5 where he didn’t shoot it, as well. 3 games where his lights out. And on those games, watching the tape, I can’t tell the difference, in his effort, in his sprinting, in his force. I can’t tell the difference in his attitude on the bench.”

Hield’s exceptional qualities forced Kerr to admit, “You dream about coaching guys like that.” Hield has appeared in all games for the franchise so far, contributing an average of 21.2 points per game. His shooting game might not be on par with Curry, but his NBA 3-point champion title (2020) and 40.1% shooting from beyond the arc can vouch for his prowess. The Bahamian’s on and off-court brilliance makes him the best move for the Warriors this summer.

Filling a Curry-sized void in the franchise is no small task, but Hield seems to have taken charge until the four-time champion returns. And even Curry has given Hield his approval to lead the charge for the Warriors. But how long will that be? Further in the interview, Kerr provided an update on Curry’s injury.

Steve Kerr gives update on Stephen Curry as injury recovery continues

During the Warriors’ clash against the Clippers, Stephen Curry suffered an ankle injury, which took a bad shape for the point guard. Though he is out of danger, he is sidelined for their next matchup against the Rockets.

“He didn’t do anything live, but a lot of conditioning, a lot of running, movement,” Kerr informed. “So he looks good.” The coach confirmed that he won’t be playing tonight, but his reevaluation will be done on Sunday. When asked about the recent evaluation, Kerr said, “He’s doing well and progressing well. Yeah, I haven’t talked to Rick (Celebrini) yet about the evaluation. I just know that he’s out tomorrow, and then we’ll go from there, but it’s just kind of day-to-day with the back.”

Kerr said that the franchise knew about Curry’s health issues before resigning him and is cautious right now. “Especially here early in the year, making sure that he’s okay and getting a good start to the season health-wise. So if we have to sit him out for a week or two, then we’ll do that,” the 59-year-old stated.

After adding the Olympic gold medal to his list of accolades, Kerr is approaching this season with a new 12-man strategy to ultimately get his hands on the 5th championship title. Curry’s return will be a welcome boost, but till then Buddy has him covered.