Light at end of tunnel for Chriss, but not close to playing

Share

Marquese Chriss is making steady progress in his rehab from a right syndesmosis ankle injury and a fractured fibula sustained on Dec. 26 during a Warriors scrimmage.

But Warriors coach Steve Kerr isn't expecting the 23-year-old forward to rejoin the rotation anytime soon.

"Marquese has been around a lot more," Kerr told reporters during a video conference call before Friday's game in Memphis. "He's not on the trip, but he's working at our facility every day. He's moving around much better, starting to get on to the court. I don't have a timetable for him, but it's been great to see him active and really up and about.

"There's now a light at the end of the tunnel for him. But he's not close to playing in a game. He hasn't gotten into full skill workouts or anything like that. He's just getting back onto the court."

Big things were expected from Chriss in his second season with the Warriors, but the injury following the team's 0-2 start derailed those hopes.

The initial report suggested Chriss would miss the entire 2020-21 NBA season, but since he has hit important milestones in his recovery, there was hope he might be able to come back late in the season and help the depleted Warriors frontcourt.

RELATED: Chriss no longer needs crutches, walking boot

Golden State Warriors

Find the latest Golden State Warriors news, highlights, analysis and more with NBC Sports Bay Area and California.

What Butler loved about playing with Steph in Warriors debut

Report: Giannis to miss Warriors vs. Bucks game with calf strain

While Kerr said there's a light at the end of the tunnel for Chriss, with just under two months left in the regular season, it's unclear if the former first-round draft pick will be able to return to the court for the playoff push.

Download and subscribe to the Dubs Talk Podcast

Contact Us