Golden State Warriors guard Steph Curry is facing a new challenge as his patella-femoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner's knee, will require careful management in the upcoming season. This ongoing concern stems from the lingering effects of an injury that caused him to miss 39 games during the 2025-26 regular season.
According to NBC Sports reporter Monte Poole, who discussed the situation on the "Dubs Talk" program, there remains "lingering concern about [Curry’s] knee." Poole noted that while the condition can be managed, it presents a novel situation for Curry, who has historically been lauded for his exceptional physical conditioning. "From what I've been told, it can be managed. But it has to be managed. And that’s a new thing for Steph," Poole stated.
Curry and his trainers have reportedly developed strategies to support his knee and mitigate potential issues. "From what I understand, he and his trainers have devised ways to kind of work around that, and sort of support that whole possibility of the knee not being as great as he wants it to be," Poole added. Curry himself has previously expressed frustration with the unpredictable nature of this particular knee ailment, which differs from more straightforward injuries like a sprained ankle that have clearer recovery timelines.
Despite the management plan, the need to actively manage the injury into the 2026-27 season suggests that Curry's on-court presence may be more variable than in past years. Poole indicated that Curry remains confident in his ability to play a significant number of games, estimating "70-plus games." However, the team's preparedness to manage his condition suggests that expectations for his availability may need to be recalibrated by both the player and the fanbase.