Chris Paul has missed the Golden State Warriors last 18 games after suffering a fractured hand against the Detroit Pistons on Jan. 5. However, it appears the veteran point guard is nearing a return to the rotation. According to Steve Kerr, who was speaking with the media following the 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 practice. She noted how the team’s medical staff is 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 the play of both veterans.
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. That game will come too soon for Paul. However, he could be back in the rotation during the coming games, assuming he can prove his fitness to the coaching staff.
