With the weight of the world seemingly resting on his shoulders, Stephen Curry feels no pressure to carry the Golden State Warriors next season.
While many are skeptical that the Golden State Warriors can compete for a title without Klay Thompson next season – everybody can agree that the fate of the franchise is in Stephen Curry’s hands. How the two-time MVP performs next season will directly impact whether or not we see the Dubs come roaring back, or if the dynasty will quietly be snuffed into the abyss.
For Curry, the drastic possible outcomes of next season don’t concern him. He is a weathered veteran now, entering his 12th campaign and feeling no pressure to do what he does best. In a sit down with Zach Frydenlund of Complex Sports, Curry spoke on his expectations for next season:
"“I don’t think pressure has ever been a part of the conversation when I start a season or anything like that… I know I have got to play great. I have got to lead. And that’s why you work as hard as you do to be ready for that.”"
Curry isn’t phased by the odds being stacked against him. As you may remember, the Warriors were underdogs entering their first title season. It’s been a winding road for the undersized MVP but he is more than ready to continue blazing a trail for future generations. He doesn’t care what people think, or if they’ve forgotten what he is capable of.
"“They might joke, and laugh, and try to poke and prod. But at the end of the day, I know who I am, I know who our team is, and what we’ve accomplished.”"
The Warriors will be back in an underdog position next year with heavyweight opponents like the Los Angeles Lakers standing in their way. But, according to Curry, his ongoing rivalry with LeBron James isn’t something he thinks of much.
"“But I think at the end of the day, if you get caught up in that, you’re already at a disadvantage just because there’s so many other teams and other players at the top… Forever, it’s going to be hard to get rid of the four year back and forth between the Warriors and Cleveland, but we’re moving on.”"
Curry also spoke on how joining the exclusive club of legends to play their entire career for one franchise is something that interests him, alluding to potentially being a member of the Warriors for life. This is certainly great news for Bay Area fans.
Lastly, Curry set a goal for himself heading into the new decade. While winning a championship is the obvious priority, the Splash Brother is also eyeing the all-time 3-point record. He currently stands only 65 away from Reggie Miller, and 478 away from the top spot held by Ray Allen.
Its unlikely Curry surpasses Allen next season. After all, the single-season record for 3-pointers is 402, a mark set by Curry in his unparalleled MVP run. But, with an increased expectation for Curry to score at a high-rate, we can expect him to put a large dent in that race before the season ends.
The stage is set for an unbelievable tale of redemption. Curry can rise from the ashes and reclaim the throne next season – or, he could fall off the face of the earth. Whatever happens, Curry is facing the challenge without fear.