Stephen Curry Returns After Injury Absence: Warriors Beat Pelicans 111-95
Stephen Curry After a two-game absence due to a pelvic contusion, Stephen Curry made a triumphant return to the court for the Golden State Warriors, leading them to a 111-95 victory over the New Orleans Pelicans. His presence was crucial in the Warriors’ offensive performance, and it was clear that the team had missed the reigning NBA Finals MVP. Stephen Curry Curry’s return provided a spark that revitalized Golden State, helping them solidify their position in a highly competitive Western Conference playoff race.
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The Importance of Curry’s Return
Curry’s return from injury couldn’t have come at a more crucial time. Despite playing without one of their top players, the Warriors struggled in their last two games, resulting in a rare losing streak. Stephen Curry Curry had been sidelined after suffering a pelvic contusion during a game against the Toronto Raptors on March 20, 2025. Although the injury wasn’t deemed serious, an MRI showed no structural damage, but the Warriors were cautious with their star player’s recovery to avoid further complications.
Given the Warriors’ playoff aspirations, it was essential to get Curry back on the floor as quickly as possible. The two-game absence came at a time when Golden State was looking to secure a top-six seed in the Western Conference to avoid the play-in tournament. With Curry back in action, the Warriors were eager to get back on track and capitalize on their veteran leadership and championship experience.
The Game: Warriors Dominate Pelicans
In the March 29, 2025 matchup against the Pelicans, Curry made an immediate impact, although it took him some time to find his rhythm. He began the game slowly, scoring only three points in the first quarter, but as the game wore on, he found his form and became a driving force for Golden State. By the end of the game, Curry had recorded 23 points, leading the team to a much-needed win.
Key Contributions from Curry
While Curry’s return was the highlight of the night, his performance on the court was instrumental in pushing the Warriors past the Pelicans. After struggling in the opening quarter, Curry found his groove, knocking down several three-pointers and creating opportunities for his teammates. His leadership and offensive production were crucial, especially in the second half when Golden State began to pull away from New Orleans.
Bench Depth Plays Key Role
In addition to Curry’s stellar performance, the Warriors received significant contributions from several other players. Jimmy Butler III played one of his most complete games of the season, registering a double-double with 18 points and 10 rebounds. His all-around play on both ends of the court helped the Warriors stay aggressive, particularly as the Pelicans attempted to make a comeback.
Jonathan Kuminga added 16 points off the bench, providing much-needed scoring depth for Golden State. Kuminga’s energy was contagious, and he played a vital role in providing a spark when the team needed it most. Quinten Post, another bench contributor, scored 15 points, further showcasing the Warriors’ depth in their rotation.
Golden State’s depth was critical in this victory, as they managed to outscore the Pelicans 28-13 in the final quarter, effectively sealing the win. The Warriors’ ability to keep the intensity high, even as the Pelicans started strong, was a testament to their veteran leadership and championship-caliber roster.
New Orleans’ Struggles Without Zion Williamson
Despite a solid effort from their remaining players, the Pelicans were once again without their superstar Zion Williamson, who is recovering from a foot injury. Williamson’s absence has been a major blow to New Orleans’ chances of making a deeper playoff run this season. While players like Brandon Ingram and CJ McCollum have stepped up in his absence, the Pelicans have struggled to find consistent scoring and defensive presence without their franchise player.
Against the Warriors, the Pelicans managed to start strong in the first quarter, leading 28-21 after the opening period. However, Golden State’s defense tightened up, and their superior offensive execution eventually wore down New Orleans. The Pelicans had no answer for Curry’s scoring outburst in the second half, and they could not maintain the momentum they had built early in the game.
Warriors’ Playoff Push: Standing in the Western Conference
With the victory, the Warriors improved to a 42-31 record, keeping them firmly in the playoff race. Golden State currently sits in the fifth spot in the Western Conference standings, just a few games ahead of the Dallas Mavericks and the Phoenix Suns, who are both fighting for positioning.
The importance of avoiding the play-in tournament cannot be overstated, especially considering the unpredictability of the matchup scenarios in the Western Conference. While the Warriors have the pedigree and experience to make a deep playoff run, they would prefer to start in a top-six seed to avoid facing off against another elite team in the opening round.
Golden State’s Strong Playoff Potential
With Curry back in the lineup, the Warriors are poised to make a push for a strong playoff position. Golden State’s depth, coupled with the scoring prowess of Curry, makes them a dangerous team in the postseason. Players like Klay Thompson, Draymond Green, and Andrew Wiggins all provide additional experience and defensive prowess, and their chemistry with Curry has been a key factor in the team’s success over the years.
The Warriors also have the advantage of a proven system, built around ball movement, spacing, and off-the-ball movement. As Curry’s return boosts the offense, the Warriors will look to refine their defensive schemes to better match up with top-tier teams in the West. The upcoming stretch of games will be critical, as the Warriors continue their pursuit of a top playoff seed.
Coach Kerr’s Thoughts on Curry’s Return
Head coach Steve Kerr expressed his relief at Curry’s return, noting the profound impact the star point guard has on the team’s offensive flow. “We’ve missed his leadership, and tonight was a great example of what he brings to this team,” Kerr said after the game. “His ability to space the floor and create opportunities for others is unmatched. We’re excited to have him back and looking forward to what he’ll continue to bring as we move closer to the playoffs.”
Kerr also emphasized the importance of maintaining health as the season enters its final stretch. Curry’s injury scare served as a reminder that even the most durable players are susceptible to injury, and the Warriors are prioritizing his long-term health to ensure he’s at his best in the postseason.
Looking Ahead: Warriors’ Final Stretch
As the regular season winds down, the Warriors have several key games ahead of them, including matchups against the Memphis Grizzlies, Dallas Mavericks, and Denver Nuggets. Each of these teams is within striking distance of Golden State in the standings, and securing victories in these games will be critical for the Warriors’ playoff hopes.
Curry’s return provides a massive boost to the Warriors, but they will need consistent performances from their supporting cast as well. The team is still adjusting to the absence of James Wiseman and Gary Payton II, both of whom were crucial contributors during the Warriors’ championship run last season. The integration of new players into the system will also be important as they gear up for the playoffs.
Conclusion: A Championship-Caliber Team With Curry in the Mix
With Stephen Curry back on the floor, the Golden State Warriors are once again a force to be reckoned with in the Western Conference. His scoring ability, leadership, and offensive brilliance make him the centerpiece of the team, and his return couldn’t have come at a better time. As the Warriors continue their push for the playoffs, they will need to rely on their depth, experience, and coaching to compete with the best teams in the league. The final stretch of the regular season will provide a true test of their championship aspirations.
