Why Golden State can survive injury to Stephen Curry

In Golden State's first game without Stephen Curry this season, it dominated Oklahoma City on Monday night, 141-114 -- a sign the Warriors can get by fine without their injured superstar.

Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole soared, giving their best performances of the season. Thompson finished with 42 points and dropped a season-high 12 threes, and Poole added 21 points and 12 assists.

Two-time MVP Curry is out with an injury to his left leg. He's expected to miss multiple weeks, per The Athletic's Shams Charania.

Following Monday's game, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr and Draymond Green praised Poole.

"One of the best games I've ever seen him play," Green said.

"Magnificent," Kerr said.

Performances like Monday night's are why the Warriors (28-26) signed Poole to a $140 million extension. 

At the end of last season, Curry missed the final 12 games due to an ankle injury. During that stretch, Poole averaged 25.8 points, 6.2 assists and five boards and shot 42 percent from the field and 37 percent from three. 

Allowing Poole to regain that swagger and confidence from last season will be huge for the Warriors during the playoffs. Curry's absence is the perfect opportunity for him to shine. 

Curry could be out through Feb. 28 against the Trail Blazers, the Warriors' third game back from the All-Star break.

If Curry returns that night, he'll only miss seven games. Golden State has winnable games in this stretch, including four at home (Wizards, Lakers, Timberwolves and Rockets). On the road, they will play the Lakers, Clippers and Trail Blazers.

During that stretch, the Warriors could go 5-2 or even 6-1, but Poole and Thompson must play at a high level. If they can, "Dub Nation" and the Warriors won't have to panic.