Can Stephen Curry Lead the Warriors Back to the Playoffs?

The 2024/25 season marks a new era for the Golden State Warriors, as the trio that defined their success over the last decade—Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green—is no longer together. With Klay Thompson having moved to the Dallas Mavericks this past summer, Curry and Green remain to continue the fight and aim to bring the Warriors back to the top.

The 2023/24 season ended in disappointment for the Warriors, as they were eliminated in the Play-in round by the Sacramento Kings. While the team has not made significant changes this season, as long as Stephen Curry is on the roster, the Warriors remain a formidable threat in the NBA.

Steph Curry Remains in Peak Form

Stephen Curry, entering his 16th NBA season, continues to perform at a high level, despite being one of the league’s oldest active players. After ten All-Star appearances, Curry averages 26.4 points, 5.1 assists, and 4.5 rebounds, with a 45% field goal rate, 40.8% three-point shooting, and 92.3% from the free-throw line.

In a recent Dubs Talk podcast interview, Curry stated, “I still want to win another championship, even though I know how tough it will be.” His three-point shooting prowess remains unmatched, making him a unique threat on the court, and head coach Steve Kerr will need to find ways to maximize Curry’s impact.

The New Splash Brother – Buddy Hield

Klay Thompson’s departure left a significant gap, but Warriors quickly filled it by signing Buddy Hield to a two-year, $21 million contract. During Preseason, Hield made an impression by averaging 12.2 points, shooting 51.9% from the field, and 48.7% from beyond the arc. He was instrumental in the Warriors’ undefeated 6-0 Preseason record and helped reduce the team’s reliance on Curry when he rested.

Key Questions for the Warriors’ Lineup

Although Draymond Green anchors the defense, Warriors still have adjustments to make in their lineup. Andrew Wiggins is expected to take on a larger role with Thompson’s departure, but his performance has declined since his peak in the 2021/22 season.

Meanwhile, Jonathan Kuminga is seen as a future star for Warriors. He had a promising 2023/24 season and is considering an extension after the 2024/25 season. Moses Moody recently signed a three-year, $39 million extension as well. With additional support from Brandin Podziemski, Kyle Anderson, Buddy Hield, and De’Anthony Melton, Coach Steve Kerr will need time to fine-tune the lineup.

Golden State Warriors face a challenging season ahead, and all eyes are on Stephen Curry to see if he can lead the team back to the Playoffs.