Golden State Warriors star Stephen Curry (Image via: Getty Images) Stephen Curry will not play for the Golden State Warriors in their February 3, 2026 game against the Philadelphia 76ers. The team ruled him out with a right-knee issue that has bothered him over the past week.Doctors have identified the problem as patellofemoral pain syndrome, commonly known as runner’s knee. It is not considered a structural injury, but the Warriors decided rest was the better option rather than risking further discomfort.
Why is Stephen Curry not playing vs Philadelphia 76ers on February 3, 2026?
Golden State Warriors confirmed Stephen Curry’s status before Tuesday’s game at Chase Center. Head coach Steve Kerr said the knee is dealing with irritation, not a tear, but the team wants to be careful with the 37-year-old guard.Curry left the Warriors’ last game late in the third quarter because of soreness in the knee and did not return. After evaluating him, the medical staff chose to hold him out against Philadelphia. The injury report lists him as out, with no expectation that he will be activated later.He has missed time earlier this season as well, including games due to a quadriceps contusion and an ankle problem. The team is trying to prevent the knee from becoming a bigger issue. For now, he is considered day-to-day, and no return date has been announced.
Golden State Warriors adjust without their top scorer
Stephen Curry entered February averaging 26.4 points, 5.9 assists, and 4.7 rebounds per game while shooting above 41 percent from three-point range. Without him, the Warriors lose their main scorer and primary ball handler.Jordan Poole, Brandin Podziemski, and Draymond Green are expected to handle more of the offense. Green could take on a larger role as a facilitator, while Poole and Podziemski may see increased time with the ball.
76ers expected to have full lineup
Philadelphia is set to enter the game in better health. Joel Embiid, Paul George, and other key players have missed games at different points this season, but the team is expected to have its regular rotation available.The absence of Curry could affect Golden State’s perimeter defense and transition play. That may benefit Tyrese Maxey and Kelly Oubre Jr., who are comfortable in faster games. The 76ers are playing the second game of a back-to-back during a five-game road trip, but their overall availability still gives them an edge.
Golden State Warriors focused on managing his workload
The Golden State Warriors have indicated that Stephen Curry’s absence is not part of a long-term shutdown. The goal is to manage his minutes, especially with the All-Star break approaching, so he can remain available later in the season.Also read: Is Joel Embiid playing tonight vs the Golden State Warriors? Latest update on the Philadelphia 76ers star’s injury report (February 3, 2026)Until he returns, the focus will be on how Poole and Podziemski handle lead-guard duties, whether Green can keep the offense organized, and how the Warriors defend against a healthy Philadelphia team. Curry’s absence changes the matchup and improves the 76ers’ chances in this game.