Warriors player says coach Steve Kerr might not return until February

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr might not be ready to resume coaching until after the All Star break in February

Golden State Warriors coach Steve Kerr might not be ready to resume coaching until after the All Star break in February, one Warriors player told ESPN.

Interim coach Luke Walton has stood in for Kerr to start the season after Kerr suffered complications with an off-season back surgery. A spinal fluid leak he sustained during the procedure required a second surgery, and the team has not given an official timeline for his return.

The Warriors are 5–0 under Walton’s watch, and Kerr reportedly joked about his team’s hot start with ESPN following Golden State’s 119–69 win over the Memphis Grizzlies on Monday, saying, “It’s obvious you guys need me.”

• GOLLIVER: New season, same Warriors: Curry outmatches Clippers again

“They took that as a good sign his sense of humor was back,” ESPN’s J.A. Adande said during Wednesday’s game between the Warriors and the Los Angeles Clippers. “But he's still far away. In fact, one player told me they wouldn't be surprised if it takes him until after the All-Star break to return. And they’re prepared to go that long without him.”

The Warriors will have 30 games remaining in their season after the All Star break concludes on Feb. 19.

Adande also reported that Kerr appeared fatigued and was heavily medicated as he deals with headaches.

Golden State next plays the Denver Nuggets at home on Friday.

- Erin Flynn