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Shaquille O'Neal Sends Clear Message After Warriors' Steph Curry Announcement

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Paolo Songco | Last updated May 7, 2025 6:33 AM ET

The Golden State Warriors still managed to score a huge win on Tuesday night despite losing Steph Curry in the first half of Game 1 against the Minnesota Timberwolves. The former back-to-back MVP was forced to exit in the second quarter and was unable to return after being diagnosed with a left hamstring strain.

Despite Curry's absence, the Warriors were still able to steal away home-court advantage from Minnesota with a 99-88 win at Target Center.

Golden State head coach Steve Kerr spoke to reporters after the game to provide an update on Curry's injury. The four-time NBA champion shot-caller announced that Curry will get an MRI after the game, and that he is currently considered day-to-day heading into Game 2 on Thursday.

Kerr's comments drew a quick reaction from Shaquille O'Neal during NBA on TNT's postgame show. According to the Hall of Fame big man, he believes the Warriors won't play Curry in Game 2.

"It's chess, not checkers," he said. "We won tonight, so we did what we were not supposed to do. However, we got it done, so we're probably going to sit him out (in) Game 2 no matter what until we get all the details.

"Hopefully, it's just a little strain, but Steve Kerr said it best. It's part of the game, and somebody has to step up."

Shaq reacts to Steph Curry's injury after the Warriors win Game 1 vs. the Timberwolves pic.twitter.com/lzhGPETPg8
— Paolo Songco (@PaoloSongcoNBA) May 7, 2025

O'Neal called on Buddy Hield and Jimmy Butler to step up in Curry's stead, while also sending a blunt message to the Warriors amid the two-time MVP's concerning injury.

"But without Steph, they're just a regular team," O'Neal continued. "But, you know, I say, rest them this next game. And then if we win that game, rest him again.

"Because, again, it's chess, not checkers."

The Warriors should provide a substantial update on Curry's status for Game 2 once the MRI results come back. O'Neal, though, isn't exactly holding his breath--at least in terms of Curry's availability for Thursday's game.

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

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