SAN FRANCISCO – De’Anthony Melton will miss the remainder of the 2024-25 season with a sprained left anterior cruciate ligament.
Melton, 26, is expected to undergo knee surgery in the near future, the Warriors announced. Even though he missed the last two games, he and the team were diligent in getting different opinions on his injury. They concluded that the best course of action would be season-ending surgery.
Melton has been productive when available this season and has earned the starting role alongside Steph Curry in the backcourt. A multi-dimensional two-way guard, Melton averages 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, 2.8 assists and 1.2 steals per game.
Golden State signed Melton to a one-year, $12.8 million contract last offseason, meaning he will be a free agent after the season ends. He missed more than half of last year due to serious back injuries, but worked over the summer to strengthen his core muscles to avoid further problems.
However, before the knee injury, Melton missed five straight games due to a back strain. He described the situation as mild — and significantly less painful than what he suffered last year — but the team treated him with caution.
Three games after his return — and after earning the starting point guard role — he sprained his knee against the Mavericks. After limping a bit, Melton finished the game.
Given Melton’s status as an impending free agent, it’s possible his tenure as a Warrior will only last six games.
This is a developing story.
Guest 2: Balancing a player’s health while aiming for a successful season is always tricky. Do you believe the Warriors’ approach has been effective in managing Melton’s injuries, or should they have taken a different strategy to ensure he remains healthy long-term?
1. Impact of De’Anthony Melton’s Injury on the Warriors’ Season:
Guest 1: As the Warriors’ starting point guard, De’Anthony Melton’s absence will undoubtedly be felt on the court. How do you think his injury will affect the team’s overall performance in the remaining games of the season?
Guest 2: Melton’s injury is definitely a setback for the Warriors, but they have a deep roster that has been able to step up when needed in the past. It will be interesting to see who coach Steve Kerr decides to slot into the starting lineup at point guard and how the team adjusts its rotations to compensate for his absence.
2. Status of Melton’s Recovery:
Guest 1: With season-ending surgery announced, it’s clear that Melton’s recovery process will take some time. Can you provide an update on his rehabilitation timeline and what steps he plans to take to ensure a full recovery?
Guest 2: While the exact timeline for Melton’s return is still unclear, it’s encouraging that he’s taking the necessary steps to strengthen his core muscles post-injury to avoid further problems. This shows a level of dedication and commitment from him to come back stronger.
3. Impact of Injuries on Melton’s Tenure with Warriors:
Guest 1: Melton signed a lucrative deal with the Warriors last offseason but has been plagued by injuries throughout his time with the team. How do you think these injuries might impact his future with the team and his prospects as a free agent this offseason?
Guest 2: It’s hard to say for sure, but teams will likely be cautious about offering Melton a long-term deal given his injury history. However, he’s been productive when healthy and has the potential to be a valuable asset to any team in the league.
4. Warriors’ Management of Melton’s Injuries:
Guest 1: The Warriors have been cautious with Melton’s injuries this season, pulling him from games and giving him time to recover. How do you feel about their handling of his
