One is the greatest player of his generation, while the other is the most influential. One holds the record for the most career points, while the other has made more three-pointers than anyone in history. Both are four-time NBA champions and are destined to be unanimous Hall of Fame inductees.
LeBron James and Stephen Curry will forever be linked in basketball history, largely due to their four consecutive NBA Finals clashes and numerous unforgettable duels. Even as they reach an age when most players have retired, both continue to perform at an elite level. However, just a few months ago, the narrative surrounding them was far different, with discussions centering on whether they were finally entering the decline phase of their careers rather than extending their dominance.
Earlier this season, the term “washed” was unfairly used to describe both superstars. On December 4, James was struggling after a rough five-game stretch in which he shot just 1-for-23 from three-point range. His season averages at the time—22 points per game with a 34% three-point shooting rate—were underwhelming by his standards. More concerningly, the Lakers’ net rating plummeted by 13.5 points whenever he was on the floor, a stark contrast to his usual positive impact. At that point, Los Angeles had a 12-10 record, making a Play-In Tournament berth seem inevitable.
Curry, too, faced skepticism as his Golden State Warriors battled inconsistency. Despite still showcasing his signature deep shooting and playmaking, there were questions about whether he could carry the team like he once did. With injuries and roster challenges affecting the Warriors, his ability to elevate his squad was being scrutinized more than ever. Some wondered if Golden State’s championship window had finally closed, with Curry past his peak.
Yet, both James and Curry have silenced their critics once again, proving that their greatness cannot be easily dismissed. With renewed performances following the trade deadline and a relentless drive to compete at the highest level, they continue to redefine longevity in the NBA. Their legacies are already cemented, but their impact on the game remains as strong as ever.
On the same day, about 400 miles north, the Golden State Warriors, after a hot 12-3 start, had dropped five straight games, with 36-year-old Stephen Curry struggling under what coach Steve Kerr described as an “abnormal” offensive burden, leading to his lowest scoring average since 2012 and a lack of a reliable secondary scorer to support the team’s offense.
At the trade deadline, James and Curry each gained a star teammate—Luka Dončić and Jimmy Butler—potentially extending their careers and adding to their already impressive legacies. Since pairing with their new co-stars, both have seen noticeable improvements in their performance and efficiency, while the Lakers and Warriors have emerged as serious contenders in the Western Conference.
At the trade deadline, James and Curry each gained a star teammate—Luka Dončić and Jimmy Butler—potentially extending their careers and adding to their already impressive legacies. Since pairing with their new co-stars, both have seen noticeable improvements in their performance and efficiency, while the Lakers and Warriors have emerged as serious contenders in the Western Conference.
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