After missing Game 3 of the Warriors first round playoff matchup with the Blazers on Saturday, Warriors head coach Steve Kerr told reporters on Sunday that he will also not be available for Monday’s Game 4, and left open the possibility that he could miss the rest of the postseason due to complications that have resurfaced from his back surgeries last offseason.
Kerr, who hasn’t missed a game this season, said his symptoms have gotten worse during the last five days, and that he will not return to the sideline until they get better. Asked it that means he could miss the entire postseason, Kerr said yes.
The key part of the Steve Kerr press conference, in my opinion: https://t.co/HpZ0OqrCmL pic.twitter.com/GhX9KrhPHl
— Ethan Strauss (@SherwoodStrauss) April 23, 2017
Steve Kerr updates his health status, says symptoms have worsened, he will not coach tomorrow and status unknown beyond pic.twitter.com/qtQRAYYHvq
— Anthony Slater (@anthonyVslater) April 23, 2017
(Video via Anthony Slater of the Bay Area News Group)
Kerr said that he does not want to return only to have to sit out again, and was adamant that he would not return unless he was confident that it would be for the remainder of the postseason. Kerr also implored those listening to use his situation as an example of why back surgery should be avoided at all costs.
“I can tell you if you’re listening out there, stay away from back surgery…Rehab, rehab, rehab. Don’t let anyone get in there,” Kerr said.
Kerr missed 43 games last season due to a spinal fluid leak that arose following two back surgeries, giving him horrible symptoms such as migraines and nausea. Lead assistant Mike Brown will take over coaching duties until Kerr is healthy enough to return.