Warriors Guard Will Richard Sidelined Indefinitely With Left Thumb Injury

Posted : 09 November 2026

The Golden State Warriors have suffered an injury setback after second-year guard Will Richard was diagnosed with a torn ligament in his left thumb, leaving him out of action for an indefinite period.

The 23-year-old was ruled out of Monday's meeting with the New Orleans Pelicans at Chase Center after the injury was confirmed on the team's official injury report. However, Golden State has yet to provide a recovery timetable or clarify whether surgery or another form of treatment will be required.

Richard's absence comes at an important stage of the Warriors' campaign, as he has recently established himself as a useful member of head coach Steve Kerr's rotation. He has featured as both a starter and a reserve, helping the team build momentum after losing its opening three games.

Golden State had won seven consecutive games before the injury setback, with Richard starting against the Phoenix Suns and Miami Heat during the previous week.

His defensive contribution has particularly impressed Stephen Curry, who praised the young guard's energy and ability to disrupt opposing players.

“Everybody having an impact, throw Will Richard in there, too. He's had three straight games really where he's turned up the energy defensively for us,” Curry said after the Warriors' 116-113 victory over Phoenix. “Defensively, he's just been a pest out there.”

Richard entered the NBA as a second-round selection in the 2025 Draft after helping the University of Florida Gators secure a national championship.

Although his numbers may not fully reflect his contribution, he has averaged 5.1 points, 1.8 rebounds and 1.0 assists per game this season. He has also been efficient from the field, shooting 47.5 per cent overall and 42.9 per cent from three-point range.

His injury could create additional opportunities for other players as Golden State looks to maintain its recent progress without an important rotation option.

There is a recent example of a similar injury elsewhere in the league. Sacramento Kings forward Keegan Murray suffered a torn ulnar collateral ligament in his thumb early last season, underwent surgery and missed the team's first 15 games. However, Richard's treatment plan and expected recovery period remain unknown.

Warriors Guard Will Richard Sidelined Indefinitely With Left Thumb Injury

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