Stephen Curry is officially listed as questionable ahead of Sunday’s high-stakes matchup between the Golden State Warriors and the LA Clippers at Chase Center.
The two Western Conference contenders are entering the regular season finale with playoff seeding on the line, and Curry’s status remains a key storyline after he sustained a right thumb sprain.
The All-Star guard told reporters following Friday’s 103-86 win over the Portland Trail Blazers that he intends to suit up despite the injury.
The Warriors are currently in sixth place at 48-33 and can secure a playoff berth with a win or a loss by Minnesota.
Golden State cannot finish higher than sixth or lower than seventh, meaning a win guarantees they avoid the Play-In Tournament.
Gary Payton II, who has been playing through a nasal bone fracture, is listed as available and is expected to wear a protective mask.
The Clippers have ruled out Nicolas Batum (groin strain) and Patty Mills (illness), but the rest of their core rotation remains intact.
Los Angeles is 3-0 against the Warriors this season and will try to complete the sweep while improving its playoff position.
Currently the No. 5 seed at 49-32, the Clippers can move up to No. 4 and secure home court in the first round with a win and Houston beating Denver in most scenarios.
However, a loss could drop them as far as No. 7 depending on results elsewhere, including outcomes for Denver and Minnesota.
Denver clinches a playoff spot with a win or a loss by either the Warriors or Timberwolves, while the Clippers secure theirs with a win or a loss by Denver or Minnesota.
Golden State will be watching the Timberwolves closely as well, since a Minnesota loss also ensures their playoff qualification.
