Golden State Warriors forward Andre Iguodala. Paul Rutherford-USA TODAY Sports

Desperate Warriors need Andre Iguodala to return sooner than later

By Max Steele | Last updated 5/7/23

On Saturday, the Golden State Warriors announced that Andre Iguodala has been medically cleared to workout and is expected practice with the team "at some point" this week. The 2015 Finals MVP has been out with a fractured left wrist since March 13.

The Warriors, who are down 2-1 against the Los Angeles Lakers in the Western Conference semifinals, could desperately use the veteran forward.

Andre Iguodala, who suffered a fractured left wrist on March 13th, has been cleared to intensify his on-court workouts and is expected to participate in team practices at some point next week. pic.twitter.com/MOkq5jjG0d
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) May 6, 2023

"He's getting closer to possibly being able to play," head coach Steve Kerr told reporters after Game 3.

Iguodala played a crucial role in establishing the Golden State dynasty. Along with his All-Defensive Team coverage and notable clutch gene, the four-time champion provides unmatched heart, hustle and leadership.

Since the 2014-15 season, the Warriors have made the Finals every time Iguodala was on the team. When he joined the Miami Heat in 2019-20, he reached the Finals again while the injured Warriors tanked to last in conference.

The 39-year-old isn't the same All-Star he used to be, but he could provide much-needed defense and court presence against LeBron James and Anthony Davis' squad — who dominated the Warriors 127-97 in Game 3.

Iguodala hasn't let his injury deter him from making an impact. Throughout the playoffs, the veteran has been seen coaching teammates, discussing tactics with Kerr and thoroughly arguing rules with referees.

Andre Iguodala making an impact even from the bench pic.twitter.com/0MCHwesEWt
— Warriors Nation (@WarriorNationCP) April 30, 2023

Andre Iguodala knows the rules very well, as he emphatically explains to Bill Kennedy why he missed this call https://t.co/MV5DeBCum8 pic.twitter.com/k2W9uAVf4P
— BBALLBREAKDOWN (@bballbreakdown) May 7, 2023

And while that's great, the Warriors need him back on the court as soon as possible — before it's too late.

Game 4 tips off in L.A. at 10 p.m. on Monday night.

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