During the Bulls-Warriors game this week, Steph Curry went up for a layup. The play was ruled a foul on Lonzo Ball, and it resulted in Curry needing a minute to gather himself. While he ultimately stayed in the game, he shorted a free throw before drilling the second, although he showed some obvious signs of pain in his hand.

Here’s the play Curry suffered his injury on:

It’s not noted in the clip, but the foul was initially called because Lonzo Ball bodied up Curry on his way to the rim. DeRozan also (likely unintentionally, as both fouls seemed to be) slapped Curry’s hand on the way up. The result ended with Steph having a bad landing on his hand, which caused him some initial pain.

Steve Kerr said during media availability today that Steph would not play Sunday against the Timberwolves.

Some rest for Steph probably is on the docket, as he’s started to pick up his play again. While this may seem counterintuitive, it’ll gave Kerr a better chance to incorporate Thompson into Steph-less lineups. We already know how he plays with Curry, but something important to know is that before this season, Thompson has not played a single game with either Wiggins or Poole, who are now two of the team’s leading scorers.

This chemistry-building outside of the Dubs’ driving offensive force - or defensive force, as Draymond Green was already confirmed to be out for this game by Steve Kerr - is important to team success in the playoff. Let’s not forget that neither Poole nor Wiggins have much credible playoff experience. Being able to gel with veterans who have been there, regardless of circumstances, builds chemistry and allows the young guys to play more-easily into their roles.

Curry’s next chance to play will be at the start of a long homestand. Him and Draymond could return at the same date, which would allow the Warriors to be revitalized and re-energized with the presence of two of their most influential players. For now, we will see how the newer players (given how new this roster is from even when Thompson last played) gel with their star shooting guard.

(Photo credit: National Basketball Association)