Kerr, “it’s sort of an open question” - Warriors Kevon Looney could return to the Finals after all

On Thursday, a number of sources broke the news that injured forward Kevon Looney could potentially return to the NBA Finals after all. Looney, who was diagnosed with a non-displaced cartilage fracture in his chest after game 2 and ruled out of action previously would be a much-needed addition to a woefully wounded Warriors roster.

As reported by ESPN’s Tim Bontempts initially, while there isn’t a ton of detailed information, the mere possibility of return is notable.

After undergoing further evaluation of the non-displaced first costal cartilage fracture he suffered in Game 2, Golden State Warriorsforward Kevon Looney could potentially return during the NBA Finals.

More testing will determine Looney’s next steps and whether he does, in fact, make a return to the league’s championship round.

Coach Steve Kerr was asked about it during media availability later Thursday, and he confirmed that the Warriors were “gathering information... second opinion type thing.”

Logan Murdock went on to report that there was a scheduled appointment on Thursday that would shed more light on the situation. With all these players injured to varying degrees, it’s important to remember that one leg of the decision tree for a return to action is how likely further injury would be and what harm could come. Remember, Damian Lillard played with a rib cartilage tear in the Conference Finals (ironically from Looney landing on him inadvertently).

Looney, an impending free agent, has had a tremendous positive impact while on the court in these playoffs. While his return probably won’t single-handedly swing the series, his availability would provide a much needed boost in a Finals series that the Warriors are struggling to extend for as long as possible while awaiting Durant’s uncertain return.