In a tough blow to the Golden State Warriors, star guard Stephen Curry exited Thursday night's game against the Chicago Bulls with an apparent ankle injury. Curry rolled his right ankle late in the fourth quarter after landing awkwardly on a drive through the lane. He limped around the court in an attempt to walk it off but eventually left the game and went straight to the locker room with just under four minutes remaining.

According to an ESPN report, Curry is scheduled to undergo imaging on his ankle on Friday, and the team is expected to provide an update on his condition later in the day. Meanwhile, Coach Steve Kerr revealed that Curry had his foot in a bucket of ice in the locker room following the game.

Curry's absence was notably felt down the stretch as the Warriors fell short to the Bulls. With just seven seconds remaining, rookie Brandin Podziemski missed a point-blank layup attempt that could have tied the game. The final potential game-winning shot from half court was also missed by Lester Quinones, who replaced Curry in the lineup.

Despite the loss, the Warriors have been one of the hottest teams in the NBA, boasting a record of 14-5 in their last 19 games. Curry has been instrumental in this run, averaging 26 points, five assists, and five rebounds with impressive shooting splits of 45% from the field, 41% from three-point range, and 89% from the free-throw line.

The depth of the Warriors' rotation will be tested if Curry is sidelined for any significant period of time. During their recent impressive streak, Golden State's offense has relied heavily on Curry's scoring prowess, with the team's offensive rating dropping from 118 points per 100 possessions to 107 when he is off the court. The Warriors have struggled in the three games Curry has missed this season, losing all three.

Given Curry's history of ankle injuries, there is understandable concern within the organization. Coach Kerr recently mentioned that he felt Curry was fatigued after a rough shooting stretch, so it wouldn't be surprising if the team opts to hold him out as a precaution, even if the injury turns out to be less severe.

As the Warriors prepare to face the San Antonio Spurs on Saturday at Chase Center, the next step for Curry's recovery will likely involve imaging of his injured ankle. The team will have to rely on its collective efforts to maintain their winning form in Curry's potential absence.

Teammate Klay Thompson expressed support for Curry, stating, "I know he'll be ready to go when he does come back, whenever that is. We just want to wish him a speedy recovery, and to take his time."

The Warriors and their fans now eagerly await the update on Curry's status, hoping for a positive prognosis and a swift return for their superstar guard.