The Golden State Warriors’ current state paints a bleak picture. Once a powerhouse of the NBA, their energy now seems depleted. With lackluster efforts on the court, a lifeless arena atmosphere, and an uninspired roster, the team no longer embodies the joy and chaos that revolutionized basketball. Instead, it feels like a shadow of its former self—a stark contrast to the dynasty days led by Stephen Curry.
A Parallel to Tom Brady
This scenario echoes Tom Brady’s final season with the New England Patriots in 2020. The Patriots faced a grim future: an aging roster, salary cap issues, and a looming rebuild. Recognizing the writing on the wall, Brady made a bold decision to leave, joining the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and winning another Super Bowl ring.
Steph Curry now faces a similar crossroads. Should he stay loyal to the Warriors, enduring what could be a prolonged downturn, or should he take a page from Brady’s playbook and seek success elsewhere? Unlike Brady, Curry’s contract complicates matters. Signed through 2026-27 for $122.21 million, Curry’s path to leaving Golden State would require requesting a trade.
Assessing Golden State’s Future
Curry’s trade eligibility opens up this season, but clarity about the Warriors’ trajectory will come by summer. By then, the draft position will be determined, and opportunities for a blockbuster trade could emerge. However, the current signals from the franchise are discouraging. The “two-timeline” strategy—balancing veteran contention with developing young talent—has faltered, prompting criticism from Curry himself. He recently adjusted his stance, stressing the importance of maintaining the franchise’s long-term stability over immediate gains.
Draymond Green and Steve Kerr have echoed similar sentiments, suggesting a coordinated narrative from the organization. Is this a subtle admission that the championship window has closed? Perhaps the Warriors are preparing for a rebuild, with injuries to key players like Curry and Green serving as a convenient backdrop for tanking.
Potential Trade Destinations for Curry
If Curry were to request a trade, the possibilities are tantalizing. Imagine him teaming up with Nikola Jokić in Denver, joining forces with Victor Wembanyama in San Antonio, or elevating emerging teams like the Magic, Rockets, or Timberwolves. Any of these scenarios could offer Curry a better chance at securing a fifth or even sixth championship ring.
For the Warriors, trading Curry could also be a wise move. As Curry himself noted, there’s a responsibility to leave the franchise in a strong position for the future. Trading him for a haul of assets now, while his value remains sky-high, might accelerate the team’s rebuilding process and set them up for sustained success in the post-Curry era.
The Crossroads Ahead
The Warriors’ path forward is uncertain. Perhaps they strike gold in the next draft or land a star who reignites their contention hopes. Perhaps Curry’s loyalty inspires one final resurgence. But as it stands, their championship window has closed, leaving Curry with a monumental decision.
Will he stay with the franchise where he became a legend, or will he venture into uncharted territory to chase more glory? The next six months could define the legacy of one of the greatest players in NBA history.
