In a recent discussion with Marc J. Spears of Andscape, Stephen Curry highlighted his inclination to finish his career with the Warriors, while also acknowledging certain circumstances that could lead him to consider a potential departure. Curry’s comments were made in response to a question about whether he would show the same loyalty displayed by Kobe Bryant and Dirk Nowitzki, who remained with a single team but played for teams of average quality towards the end of their careers.
“The situation is quite complex, isn’t it? I’ve consistently voiced my aspiration to remain a Warrior for life,” stated Curry. “At this point in my career, I believe that goal is attainable. While maintaining competitiveness is crucial, it doesn’t ensure championship success. Winning is a priority, but one must also be practical. Merely sticking to the existing situation does not guarantee triumph. It’s vital to introduce modifications and continuously innovate to adjust to the current landscape of the league and the caliber of talent on the field.”
I’m proceeding with caution, to be honest. I think this is the most appropriate approach to safeguard my contentment, allowing me to derive satisfaction from my craft. I will continue to make choices that serve my best interests and align with my career aspirations in the broader context. I aim to secure victories. Without an entirely satisfactory explanation, if I find myself in a scenario where the team is underperforming and I remain solely out of loyalty, that would pose a challenge. However, I don’t envision that scenario materializing.”
Despite winning a championship just two years ago, Golden State was eliminated in the play-in tournament last season, and the team is currently experiencing significant changes. Klay Thompson, Curry’s longtime backcourt companion, was dealt to Dallas in a sign-and-trade agreement earlier in the month, eliminating a vital component from the team that secured four championships in the last decade.
Curry expressed a feeling of “strangeness” when imagining the Warriors without Thompson, and he anticipates that the impact of Thompson’s absence will truly hit home once the training camp begins.
“All good things eventually reach their conclusion. I wish the outcome were different,” pondered Curry. “I wish we could have all stayed as Warriors for the entirety of our careers. [Thompson] made a decision based on what he deemed best for himself. The achievements we managed to reach and the duration over which we accomplished them together are remarkable and demonstrate the challenges of sustaining such success. Therefore, I choose to commemorate our achievements and shared experiences rather than hold onto any bitterness.”
The Warriors have revitalized their roster this summer by adding De’Anthony Melton, Kyle Anderson, and Buddy Hield following Thompson’s departure. Curry also highlighted Jonathan Kuminga, Brandin Podziemski, and Trayce Jackson-Davis as promising young talents who must assume greater responsibilities for the Warriors to once again contend for the championship.
Image Source: Marcos Mesa Sam Wordley / Shutterstock
