The Golden State Warriors, playing without superstar Stephen Curry, absorbed a close 101-96 defeat at the hands of the New Orleans Pelicans on Thursday night. Despite having a depleted crew, the Warriors displayed a valiant effort, keeping the game tight all throughout.

It was clear, however, that they missed the services of Curry who was ruled out due to a left quad injury he incurred in their previous game against the Dallas Mavericks. While it wasn't serious, ESPN reported that Warriors coach Steve Kerr wanted to err on the side of caution.

Coach Steve Kerr said before the game that it made sense to keep Curry out because the star guard's injured quad was “pretty sore,” and that keeping him off the court in New Orleans “not only gives him a chance to recover from the injury but gives him a needed break” with the Warriors not slated to play again for three days.

The Warriors were undermanned against the Pelicans as they also played without forward Draymond Green due to a sore hip. Andrew Wiggins picked up the scoring cudgels with 21 points while four others chipped in twin digits. Without Curry, the Warriors went 7-of-33 from long distance.

Curry could use the one-game break to recalibrate as he has struggled recently, shooting a woeful 8-of-41 combined in their last two outings.

He should return on Sunday when the Warriors take on the Cleveland Cavaliers in Klay Thompson's possible return.