Steph Curry (lower left leg) exits vs. Mavericks

Golden State Warriors point guard Steph Curry exited Saturday’s game against the Dallas Mavericks with a lower left leg injury, the team announced. Here’s what you need to know:
• Curry took a knee-to-knee hit late in the third quarter when Mavericks guard McKinley Wright IV drove to the basket.
• After consultation, Curry went to the locker room along with Warriors director of sports medicine and performance Rick Celebrini, limping on that left leg. X-rays were negative and Curry will get an MRI.
• Curry played 26 minutes, recording 21 points, six rebounds and seven assists.
• The Warriors defeated the Mavericks 119-113 to improve to 27-26 on the season.

What’s the significance of the injury?

Depends on the MRI and how much time he misses. This is a vital stretch for the Warriors with a pivotal date on the NBA calendar next week. The Warriors are weighing whether to make roster changes at the trade deadline. If Curry is out for any extended time, that could theoretically discourage them from making any bigger win-now moves if the season is already in peril. They should get the results on Sunday and some clarity. “Any time someone gets an MRI there’s some concern,” Steve Kerr said. — Slater

What needs to happen if he is out for some time?

Jordan Poole and Andrew Wiggins must turn around their recent play. Both have struggled lately. Both will shoulder higher usage offensive roles. It’s about record survival in the near term for the Warriors, with or without Curry. They’re 27-26, in the middle of a crowded conference. They have five games before the All-Star break, facing the Thunder, Blazers, Lakers, Wizards and Clippers. It’s an important stretch. — Slater
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