Warriors Guard Will Richard Suffers UCL Injury, Sidelined Indefinitely After Magic Win
Thumb injury sidelines Richard
Richard injured the UCL in his left thumb during the Warriors’ overtime victory over Orlando on Saturday. Brett Siegel of ClutchPoints said on X that Richard would be out indefinitely.
A UCL tear can keep an athlete out for weeks, according to the article. No return date was provided for Richard.
Defense adds value beyond scoring
Richard has appeared in 10 games, starting three, and averages 5.1 points. Those scoring figures do not capture his contribution, as his on-ball defense has helped Golden State.
He is the fourth player on a standard Warriors contract listed as out indefinitely. Jimmy Butler and Moses Moody have long-term knee injuries, while Kristaps Porzingis has a health issue that could lead him to retire.
Guards could take added minutes
Gary Payton II is positioned for the largest increase in playing time. He and Richard had occupied the fifth and sixth spots among the team’s guards, and Payton is expected to get the call when a fifth guard is needed.
Brandon Williams has mostly played while Stephen Curry rests. Richard’s absence could make it somewhat more likely Williams shares the floor with Curry, while De’Anthony Melton may also receive a small increase in minutes.
Key points
- Will Richard tore the UCL in his left thumb against the Magic on Saturday.
- ClutchPoints’ Brett Siegel reported Richard is out indefinitely.
- Richard averages 5.1 points across 10 appearances and contributes on-ball defense.
- Gary Payton II is expected to benefit most from Richard’s absence.