The Golden State Warriors have been one of the most successful NBA teams over the last 15 years, largely because of Stephen Curry’s brilliance.
Now entering his 16th season, Curry still has plenty to offer. However, management has struggled to build a roster capable of supporting their star in pursuit of another championship.
Since Curry joined the team in 2009, the Warriors have made nine playoff appearances and secured four championships. Their most recent title came in the 2021-2022 season, and in the following 2022-2023 campaign, they were knocked out in the Western Conference semifinals by the Los Angeles Lakers.
Last season, the Warriors fell short of the postseason entirely, and sports analyst Stephen A. Smith knows exactly who to blame: the front office led by Mike Dunleavy Jr. and head coach Steve Kerr.
Warriors’ management under fire
Curry has been the heart of the franchise’s success, but he hasn’t done it alone. Key figures like Kerr and players such as Klay Thompson, Chris Paul, and Dario Saric have complemented Curry’s efforts, helping to make the Warriors a powerhouse in the Western Conference.
Kerr remains with the team, but Paul has departed for the San Antonio Spurs, and Saric is set to play next season with the Denver Nuggets.
Most significantly, Thompson, Curry’s old buddy, left the team to join the Dallas Mavericks. In response, the Warriors acquired Buddy Hield and De’Anthony Melton, but Stephen A. Smith isn’t convinced that’s enough.
“Looking at the organization as a whole-specifically Steve Kerr-and I’m saying, ‘How come we can’t get this brother any additional help?'” Smith asked during a commentary on ESPN’s “First Take.”
“We’re talking about a Steph Curry that still looks like he’s in his prime. Still the greatest shooter on the planet,” Smith emphasized, before questioning the Warriors’ efforts.
“You would think people would clamor to [play alongside Curry]. I don’t know if that has been the case.”
Despite Smith’s concerns, other analysts, like Brady Klopfer of Golden State of Mind, believe there is still hope.
Brandin Podziemski and Trayce Jackson-Davis showed great promise in their rookie seasons, and when complemented by veterans Hield and Melton, they could provide Curry with the support he needs.
Kerr and Curry are both in high spirits after playing pivotal roles in Team USA’s Olympic gold medal win in Paris 2024. If these pieces can fall into place, the Warriors may yet return to dominance, or at least give their fans an exciting ride.
