De'Anthony Melton Progresses in ACL Recovery, Eyes November Return

Golden State Warriors guard De’Anthony Melton is steadily recovering from a torn left ACL he sustained during the 2024-25 season. Though he has missed the start of the 2025-26 campaign, Melton’s rehabilitation is progressing well, and he could be back on the court as soon as November. His return will add more depth to the Warriors’ already strong roster, providing a valuable asset for head coach Steve Kerr.

Melton, 27, was recently re-evaluated by the Warriors’ medical staff, who cleared him to ramp up his rehabilitation. This includes intensified individual workouts and small-group practices, as Melton prepares to rejoin the team’s rotation. He will be monitored closely over the next few weeks, with another evaluation scheduled for November 19. The positive update marks a significant step in his recovery process and raises expectations for his potential impact on the Warriors.

While Melton has been sidelined, his recovery progress has been closely watched by the organization. His return is eagerly anticipated, as he brings both scoring and defensive capabilities to the team. The Warriors, off to a strong 4-1 start, are optimistic about his eventual integration into the lineup, which will further bolster their depth for a championship push this season.

With the Warriors playing well and Melton’s recovery progressing smoothly, his eventual return could be a crucial addition to the team. As they look ahead to the upcoming season, keeping Melton healthy and ready for the playoffs will be a primary focus for the Warriors.

1. Melton’s Progression Toward Return

De’Anthony Melton’s road to recovery from his torn ACL has been progressing well, and the Warriors have been cautiously optimistic about his return. Following his re-evaluation by the team’s medical staff, Melton was cleared for more intense on-court work, including individual and small group practices. This marks a significant milestone in his rehabilitation process, as he prepares to get back to full basketball activity. The plan is for Melton to gradually re-integrate into team practices over the next two weeks, setting the stage for his return to the Warriors’ rotation sometime in November. His recovery timeline is being carefully managed to ensure that he is fully ready for the rigors of an NBA season. The next re-evaluation on November 19 will help determine if Melton can proceed with more substantial on-court participation and, eventually, game action. This process is a crucial one for Melton, as he looks to regain his form and contribute to a Warriors team already firing on all cylinders. While the team’s focus is on his long-term health, Melton’s ability to rejoin the lineup in November will provide much-needed depth, especially as the season progresses. The Warriors are being cautious with Melton’s return, but the organization remains confident that, once fully recovered, he will offer significant contributions on both ends of the court. As the team maintains its early-season success, Melton’s return is expected to be a welcome boost.

2. Melton’s Impact and Value to the Warriors

Before his injury, Melton had established himself as a valuable asset for the Warriors, contributing in several key areas. In his brief six-game stint with the team last season, Melton averaged 10.3 points, 3.3 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per game, while shooting a solid 37.1% from beyond the arc. His defensive versatility and ability to score efficiently made him an important piece for the Warriors’ rotation. Melton’s offseason saw him re-signing with the Warriors on a two-year, $6.5 million contract. However, the timing of his signing was delayed due to the Warriors’ contract negotiations with Jonathan Kuminga, which ultimately needed resolution before Melton’s deal could be finalized. Once those discussions were completed, Melton rejoined the team and began working toward his return to the court. With the Warriors’ current success—winning four of their first five games by an average of 12 points—Melton’s eventual addition could help the team maintain its momentum. His ability to bring both scoring and defensive presence will allow the Warriors to continue their high level of play as the season progresses. Coach Steve Kerr will be able to use Melton’s versatility to further solidify the Warriors’ lineup once he returns. The added depth will only enhance the team’s overall performance, especially when it comes to handling the playoff push.

3. A Focus on Health and Playoff Preparation

As the Warriors’ season continues, the primary concern regarding Melton is ensuring that he remains healthy and ready for the playoffs. While his absence has not hampered the team’s early success, the long-term focus is on having Melton at full strength when it matters most. Golden State has the luxury of easing him back into the rotation, allowing for a gradual adjustment period that minimizes the risk of re-injury. The Warriors’ medical staff and coaching staff will monitor Melton’s minutes and workload, ensuring that he is gradually reintegrated into the lineup in a way that maximizes his contribution while safeguarding his health. The ultimate goal is to have Melton fully prepared for the postseason, where depth and versatility will be key to the team’s championship aspirations. While his return in November remains the target, the Warriors are not rushing his recovery. The focus is on making sure Melton is physically ready for the demands of the season, and ensuring that he can perform at a high level when it counts. The team remains patient, knowing that a healthy Melton could be a game-changer during the crucial playoff stretch. Once Melton is fully reintegrated, his defensive presence and ability to contribute on offense will add another layer of depth to an already strong Warriors squad. His return will be a key component in their push for a potential championship run this season.