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Charles Barkley Left in Disbelief by 'Stupid' Steph Curry Declaration

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 14, 2025 9:35 PM ET

Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has already confirmed that it's possible Steph Curry will suit up for Game 6 against the Minnesota Timberwolves amid the 11-time All-Star's lingering hamstring injury.

That is under the assumption that the Warriors, who are currently down 3-1, will win Game 5 on Wednesday to extend this series to a sixth game.

The "NBA on TNT" crew had a spirited discussion about Curry's status on Wednesday night as the Warriors prepare to take on Minnesota without their best player available for a third consecutive game.

According to Kenny Smith, a lot will be determined by how Golden State starts Game 5.

"We will know how close Steph Curry is by the first quarter of the Golden State," Smith declared.

Charles Barkley couldn't quite understand Smith's mindset here, and the former NBA MVP just had to call him out.

"What?" a confused Barkley asked.

"Meaning, if they feel that this guy is going to come back," Smith responded.

"This dude can't come back, man," Barkley reacted. "He hasn't played basketball in a week."

Chuck couldn't believe Kenny's take on Steph Curry's return to play pic.twitter.com/RW56v1duUW
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) May 14, 2025

Ernie Johnson chimed in by questioning Smith's line of thinking, which Barkley could not agree with more.

"I love the fact when [Smith] says something stupid, you call him out," Barkley told Johnson.

Whatever the case might be, Curry will be sidelined for Wednesday's game and the Warriors must be able to survive Game 5 to give their superstar point guard a shot at returning for Game 6.

A loss on Wednesday means it's the end of the line for the Warriors and their championship aspirations this season.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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