Chris Paul is nearing a return from injury
Chris Paul has missed the Golden State Warriors last 18 games after suffering a fractured hand while playing against the Detroit Pistons on Jan. 5. However, it would now appear the veteran point guard is nearing his return to the rotation. According to Steve Kerr, who was speaking with the media following a. Feb. 21 practice session, Paul “is close” to being back on the court.
ESPN’s Kendra Andrews reported via X, formerly known as Twitter that Paul was a full participant in Golden State’s team practice. She continued by noting how the team’s medical staff are now assessing the veteran’s physical conditioning before making a decision on when he will be cleared to return to game action.
Paul has participated in 32 games for Golden State this season. He’s averaging 8.9 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 7.2 assists, shooting 42.4% from the field and 36.1% from 3-point range. Once he’s back in the rotation, Paul will likely form a partnership with Klay Thompson off the Warriors bench, which could help elevate both veterans in the process.
Chris Paul was a full participant in practice, including five-on-five, Kerr says. The next step is the for training staff getting a feel for where his conditioning is.
Paul won’t play tomorrow, but “he’s close,” Kerr said.
— Kendra Andrews (@kendra__andrews) February 22, 2024
The Warriors will face the Los Angeles Lakers on Thursday (Feb. 22). That game will come too soon for Paul. However, he could be back in the rotation over the coming games, assuming he can prove his fitness to the coaching staff.
