Fri Mar 07 03:00:00 UTC 2025: ## Warriors’ Kuminga Injury More Serious Than Initially Thought; Payton II Expected Back Soon

**New York, NY** – The Golden State Warriors face a final stretch of the season hampered by injuries, but Coach Steve Kerr offered a mixed update on two key players. While Jonathan Kuminga’s ankle sprain, initially expected to heal during the team’s current road trip, is proving more serious than anticipated, Gary Payton II is expected to return soon.

Kuminga, who injured his right ankle on January 4th, will miss his 29th game on Thursday against the Brooklyn Nets. While Kerr confirmed no setbacks in Kuminga’s recovery, he revealed the injury was more severe than initially diagnosed. He emphasized the unpredictable nature of such injuries and stated that Kuminga, while improving and having a good workout, is unlikely to play until the Warriors’ seven-game homestand begins Saturday against the Detroit Pistons. Kerr cautioned against speculation regarding Kuminga’s return date.

In more positive news, Payton II, who suffered a facial fracture after a collision with LaMelo Ball on Monday, is expected to return to the court soon. Kerr reported Payton II is being fitted for a mask and is listed as probable for Thursday’s game against the Nets.

The Warriors, despite their injury woes, are enjoying a recent resurgence. The team hopes the imminent return of key players like Payton II will bolster their efforts as they head into the final stretch of the 2024-25 NBA season.

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