Warriors hit with sudden injury blow as key rotation piece likely headed for surgery

Will Richard has been ruled out of the Golden State Warriors’ game against New Orleans after tearing a ligament in his left thumb, and surgery is considered likely. The injury could keep the second-year guard out for an extended spell, interrupting his growing role as the Warriors seek to maintain their winning run.

The usual recovery after surgery is around six weeks, though the injury is to Richard’s non-shooting hand. He was averaging 5.1 points in 17.2 minutes per game and had started two of Golden State’s previous three matches. Gui Santos has returned from knee tendinitis and may take some of Richard’s minutes, with other guards also expected to contribute as the Warriors extend a seven-game winning streak.