
Getty
Stephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors warms up before their game against the San Antonio Spurs.
The anticipated return of Stephen Curry has generated a wave of reactions across the NBA landscape, as the Golden State Warriors prepare for a potential boost ahead of their matchup with the Houston Rockets.
Curry is expected to be cleared to return Sunday after missing 27 consecutive games due to a knee injury, according to ESPN’s Shams Charania.
“Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry is expected to be cleared to return on Sunday against the Houston Rockets after missing over two months and 27 consecutive games due to a persistent knee injury, sources tell me and @anthonyVslater,” Charania wrote on X.
The update has drawn widespread response from Warriors and NBA fans, reflecting both excitement and caution surrounding his return.
Fans Celebrate Curry’s Expected Return


GettyStephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors warms up before their game against the San Antonio Spurs at Chase Center on April 01, 2026 in San Francisco, California.
Many reactions focused on the emotional impact of Curry’s absence and the anticipation of his return.
“Missed him. The game just feels different when Stephen Curry is on the floor,” one fan wrote.
Another added: “The king is back!!!”
Others pointed to how long the wait has felt.
“The wait is over. Stephen Curry finally back on the court Sunday,” a fan posted, referencing the extended absence.
Optimism Builds Around Warriors Outlook
Curry’s expected return has also fueled optimism about Golden State’s potential late-season push.
“The Chef is back. After a grueling two-month recovery, Curry’s return is the spark Golden State needs,” one reaction read.
Another fan wrote: “And just like that, the Warriors are contenders again.”
The Warriors have navigated Curry’s absence with unfortunate results, losing 18 of the 27 games to fall to 10th place in the Western Conference. His return is widely viewed as a significant boost both offensively and strategically.
Caution Remains After Long Absence
Not all reactions were celebratory.
Some fans raised concerns about the timing and potential risks associated with Curry’s return after a lengthy injury layoff.
“Two months plus a knee issue — don’t expect full ‘Curry chaos’ immediately. He’ll need rhythm,” one user wrote.
Another added: “Rushing him back after a knee injury? That could easily backfire.”
Others pointed to the challenge of returning directly into a competitive matchup.
“Jumping straight into a game against a team fighting for seeding is a trial by fire,” one post noted.
Rockets Matchup Adds Immediate Test


GettyStephen Curry of the Golden State Warriors reacts after making a three-point shot against the Houston Rockets in the 2025 NBA Western Conference Playoffs.
If officially cleared, Curry would return in a high-stakes matchup against the Rockets, a team battling for playoff positioning.
The Rockets have won four straight and are just 1 1/2 games behind the Denver Nuggets for the No. 4 seed in the Western Conference, raising the stakes for Curry’s potential return.
The timing has added another layer to the reaction.
“Houston Rockets, prepare for annihilation,” one fan wrote, reflecting confidence among supporters.
Others framed the moment in broader terms, noting the potential impact on the Western Conference playoff picture.
“The league is on notice,” one reaction read.
Warriors Await Final Clearance
While Curry is expected to return, final clearance will depend on how his knee responds following recent scrimmage activity.
Golden State has taken a cautious approach throughout Curry’s recovery, and any return could include managed minutes.
Still, the response across the NBA reflects the significance of Curry’s presence — both for the Warriors and the league as a whole.
Alder Almo is a veteran NBA reporter for Heavy.com, covering the New York Knicks, Los Angeles Lakers and Golden State Warriors. He brings over 20 years of experience across local and international media, including broadcast, print and digital. He previously covered the Knicks for Empire Sports Media and the NBA for Off the Glass. Originally from the Philippines, he is now based in Jersey City, New Jersey. More about Alder Almo
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