BREAKING: Shaquille O’Neal Had Seven Words for Steph Curry After Leaving Warriors Game Early

Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors were facing off against the Minnesota Timberwolves in the second round of the NBA playoffs.

Much of the attention heading into the series was on an injury affecting Curry’s hand. He had a swollen thumb that had been highlighted by fans and media personnel.

While many have been monitoring the injury, Curry added salt to the wound on Tuesday.

In a Game 1 matchup against the Timberwolves, Curry went down with an injury. After limping off the floor and heading back to the locker room, Curry was ruled out of the game, nursing a hamstring injury.

At halftime, the NBA on TNT crew with Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley and company, spoke on the health of Curry.

When discussing the injury, O’Neal mentioned, “He may be starting to break down.”

While O’Neal admitted that Curry has been phenomenal for the Warriors, he hinted that the Golden State star may be getting too late in his career to keep his playing style the same way.

“He may be starting to break down,” O’Neal said, per ClutchPoints. “He moves a lot for a 37, 36-year-old. This could be crucial. If I’m Golden State I definitely want to get this game for him. Rest him Game 2. Give him a couple of more days or rest. Possibly bring him Game 3.”

Curry capped off his night against the Minnesota Timberwolves with 13 points, one rebound and one assist.

The official injury report revealed that Curry suffered a left hamstring strain, per ESPN’s Shams Charania.

NBA analyst and former player Shaquille O’Neal. 

Cary Edmondson-Imagn Images

As Shaquille O’Neal explained, Curry is entering the latter half of his NBA career.

The Golden State Warriors is currently playing in his 16th season in the league, having led the organization to four NBA titles.

During the 2024-25 season, Curry has averaged 24.5 points, 4.4 rebounds and 6.0 assists per game.