Stephen Curry Nears Return as Rockets Fans Watch Western Race Tighten

Golden State star Stephen Curry has taken another step toward rejoining the Warriors, and while the development is happening hundreds of miles from Houston, it matters for anyone invested in the Western Conference race. According to reports, Curry could return to practice as soon as Wednesday as he continues recovering from a left leg injury.

The two-time MVP has missed several games during his rehab, and Golden State has struggled to generate consistency without him. As the Rockets push forward with their own playoff hopes, Curry’s status is one more variable in an already tight conference battle.

Why It Matters for Houston

Anything that shifts the balance in the West affects the Rockets’ path. Golden State remains one of those teams that can disrupt the standings when healthy, and a Curry return–even gradual–changes their outlook overnight. Houston has taken big steps this season, but the margin between several teams remains razor-thin.

A healthy Curry boosts the Warriors’ offense, spacing, and tempo, and Houston fans know firsthand how quickly he can take over a game. Whether you love watching him or are tired of seeing him hit impossible shots, his return impacts the Rockets’ seeding scenarios, especially as the midseason grind intensifies.

What’s Next

Golden State expects to evaluate Curry throughout the week as he progresses through practice and conditioning. If all goes well, a full return to action could follow soon after. For the Rockets, the mission remains the same: stack wins, tighten the defensive identity, and stay ready for a conference that changes week to week.

This article is a summary of reporting by NBC Bay Area. Read the full story here.