Warriors coach Steve Kerr sounds optimistic that veteran forward Andre Iguodala won’t be sidelined for much longer.
The 38-year-old popped up on the injury report with neck spasms about three hours before Monday’s tip-off or Game 2 of the Warriors’ first-round matchup against the Denver Nuggets. Golden State turned back the clock to the dynasty days and added a dash of Jordan Poole to cruise to a 20-point victory.
During his weekly appearance on 95.7 The Game’s “Damon & Ratto” Tuesday, Kerr gave the latest outlook on Iguodala while discussing the team's 2-0 series lead. Asked if Andre will be available for Game 3 on Thursday in Denver, Kerr said, “We’ll see.”
“We all had the day off (Tuesday) so I’ll see him (Wednesday),” Kerr told hosts Damon Bruce and Ray Ratto. “I talked to him (Monday), he didn’t seem to think it would linger for too long. Hopefully’ that’s the case.”
This is just the latest achy injury for Iguodala, who was limited to just 31 regular-season games due to knee, hip and back issues. He remains a valuable versatile defender and facilitator for the offense when he’s on the floor, but you have to wonder how much longer Iguodala’s body can hold up. At this point, this might be the final push of his 18-year career.
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Last week, as the Warriors were prepping for another postseason gauntlet, Iguodala told reporters he hasn’t taken the opportunity to stop and smell the roses this season. Last August, Iguodala told the New York Times he intends to finish his career with Golden State.
“I don’t think I really allow myself to enjoy, just being the way I am,” Iguodala said. “Sometimes I get in my own way in terms of enjoying the game, because I’m just focused on the state of where we’re at and the state of where we should be. I kinda get in my own way. I really haven’t been able to step away and cherish certain moments. It’s always like, ‘What’s next?’ I guess that’s just the way I’m wired and I gotta do a better job of that. But it’s too late now. It’s the playoffs.”
Iguodala is known for his basketball acumen, financial investments, links to Silicon Valley and most recently his podcast. He’ll be fine whenever he wants to retire. For now, Warriors fans should celebrate every moment he’s on the floor, because he could be hanging ‘em up this summer.
