The Golden State Warriors Overcome the Washington Wizards, but Injuries to Curry and Green Cast a Shadow Over the Victory

On January 19th, 2025, the Golden State Warriors managed to secure a hard-fought victory over the Washington Wizards, winning 113-106 in a game that showcased both the brilliance and fragility of their star players. While the win extended their strong performance in the Western Conference, the injuries sustained by two of their most pivotal players, Stephen Curry and Draymond Green, loomed large as concerns heading into the second half of the season.

In what was expected to be a relatively straightforward contest, the Warriors encountered more resistance than anticipated from the Wizards, who have been a scrappy and unpredictable team this year. Despite facing a tough challenge, Golden State pulled away late, aided by some clutch shots from Curry and timely defensive plays by Green. However, both players sustained injuries during the contest that raised alarms about their availability moving forward and the potential impact on the Warriors’ championship aspirations.

The Game Breakdown: Warriors’ Victory Amidst the Chaos

From the opening tip-off, the Warriors appeared to be in control. Curry’s shooting and Green’s playmaking, along with the emerging contributions from their supporting cast, put the Wizards on their heels early in the game. But the Wizards, led by standout performances from Kristaps Porzingis and Bradley Beal, refused to go quietly. Washington mounted a series of comebacks, putting pressure on the Warriors at both ends of the floor.

The game was characterized by stretches of high-paced offense, with both teams exchanging blows. Curry, despite being hobbled in the first half by what would later be diagnosed as a left ankle sprain, displayed his usual shooting touch. He knocked down six three-pointers, showing his ability to heat up quickly. Green, always a steady presence on the defensive end and as a facilitator, chipped in with several assists, rebounds, and steals, anchoring the Warriors’ defensive schemes.

However, despite their offensive firepower, the Warriors’ defense at times lacked the intensity seen earlier in the season, with Washington capitalizing on the Warriors’ occasional lapses. Porzingis was particularly effective, hitting tough shots over Warriors defenders and pulling down key rebounds. Meanwhile, Beal displayed his ability to score in bunches, keeping the Wizards within striking distance.

The game saw significant momentum shifts, but the Warriors ultimately pulled away in the final minutes, bolstered by an electrifying three-pointer from Curry with under two minutes to play. However, as the clock ticked down, it became clear that the Warriors’ celebrations were tempered by the growing concern over Curry and Green’s injuries.

Curry’s Injury: The Backbone of the Warriors at Risk

Stephen Curry, who has been the heart and soul of the Warriors for over a decade, left the game late in the fourth quarter, grimacing and limping off the court after a drive to the basket. The ankle injury was initially believed to be a minor tweak, something the two-time MVP could potentially shake off with rest. However, after the game, Curry was seen limping as he left the arena, prompting questions about the severity of the injury and the impact it could have on his availability moving forward.

Curry’s ankle injuries have plagued him throughout his career, often sidelining him for stretches of time, and this latest incident brought back memories of his previous injuries that had kept him out of playoff games in past seasons. Curry’s style of play — quick cuts, constant movement, and high-pressure shots — places significant stress on his lower extremities, making him vulnerable to ankle sprains. The Warriors’ medical staff, as always, will need to conduct a thorough evaluation, but there is no doubt that any prolonged absence from Curry would dramatically alter the Warriors’ offensive identity.

Curry’s absence would not only reduce the Warriors’ scoring ability but also have a ripple effect on the team’s ball movement, spacing, and overall offensive flow. His unique ability to stretch defenses with his deep shooting range creates driving lanes for teammates, especially for Green and Andrew Wiggins, who benefit from the space Curry provides.

While Golden State has shown it can win games without Curry in the lineup, especially during last season’s injury-plagued stretches, it is clear that they are far more dangerous when he is on the court. Should Curry’s ankle injury be more serious than expected, the Warriors will face a challenging road ahead in terms of maintaining their place near the top of the Western Conference standings.

Draymond Green: Defensive Leader and Emotional Catalyst with His Own Injury Woes

While Curry’s injury captured much of the post-game attention, Draymond Green also suffered an injury that is likely to have significant implications for the Warriors moving forward. Green, who had been playing some of his best basketball of the season, collided awkwardly with Wizards forward Deni Avdija during a defensive possession late in the third quarter. Green appeared to be in significant discomfort, clutching his lower back before being helped off the court by medical personnel.

The injury to Green, whose role as the defensive anchor and emotional leader of the team cannot be overstated, will be a critical concern for the Warriors. Green’s leadership on the floor, his ability to guard multiple positions, and his high basketball IQ are integral to the Warriors’ success. Without Green, Golden State’s defense would lose much of its structure and discipline, leaving them vulnerable to fast-paced teams and explosive individual scorers.

Like Curry, Green has dealt with his fair share of injuries, particularly to his back and knee. The Warriors’ medical team will certainly be keeping a close eye on Green’s recovery, but the immediate concern is whether he can remain effective and healthy as the season progresses. Green’s presence in the post-season will be crucial, especially against high-caliber teams that feature elite players such as Luka Dončić, LeBron James, or Nikola Jokić.

Green’s absence would be felt not only on defense but also offensively, where he facilitates much of the Warriors’ ball movement, creating open shots for teammates. His vision and unselfishness are central to Golden State’s motion offense, and without him, the team may struggle to maintain its fluidity.

The Ripple Effect: What Do Curry and Green’s Injuries Mean for the Warriors’ Playoff Push?

The Warriors have long been a championship contender, and much of that success hinges on the health and performance of Curry and Green. If either or both of these players were forced to miss extended time, the Warriors would be forced to adjust their game plan, likely leaning more heavily on Wiggins, Klay Thompson, and young players like Moses Moody and Jonathan Kuminga to fill the void.

Wiggins, who has proven to be a valuable two-way player, would likely see an increased offensive role should Curry be sidelined. He has shown the ability to create his own shot and contribute in big moments, but his consistency will be key if the Warriors are to remain competitive without their superstar point guard. Similarly, Thompson’s ability to shoot the ball could help mitigate some of the scoring loss if Curry is out, but his defensive limitations may be exposed without Green’s presence to help anchor the defense.

The Warriors’ bench players, including the likes of Kevon Looney, who has been solid as a rebounder and defender, and the young duo of Moody and Kuminga, will also need to step up in a way that they have not been asked to before. The Warriors’ depth will be tested, and coach Steve Kerr will need to rely on his system to keep the team afloat in the short term.