NBA News NBA News, Match Reports and Updates
SAN FRANCISCO (AP)— As the season drew to a close, Stephen Curry paused at Chase Center to share a heartfelt handshake and embrace with Draymond Green.
The veteran teammates are determined to vie for another championship title together, now joined by Jimmy Butler, fully aware that their opportunities might be dwindling.
Curry expressed his disappointment over the way Golden State’s season concluded, particularly since he couldn’t contribute due to a hamstring injury sustained during the playoffs.
The Warriors faced elimination at the hands of the Minnesota Timberwolves, losing 121-110 in Game 5 of the Western Conference semifinals—marking the fourth consecutive game Curry missed because of a strained left hamstring he injured in the second quarter of Game 1 last week.
At 37 years old and having played 16 seasons in the NBA, Curry understands that championship titles and playoff appearances are no longer assured. He recognizes that there are likely only a few chances left for him, Butler, Green, and coach Steve Kerr.
“All we wanted was an opportunity. Finishing the season the way we did, sneaking into the playoffs and winning that first round, there’s plenty to take pride in, especially given our circumstances,” Curry remarked. “Yet, I am certainly disappointed and honestly just saddened that I was unable to contribute on the court. We are hopeful for a bright future as we aim to return next year and try again.”
After Butler’s arrival on February 8 in Chicago, Golden State concluded the season with a record of 29-15, achieving a regular season mark of 23-8, a play-in victory over Memphis, and a playoff performance of 5-7 across two series.
Butler integrated seamlessly into the team’s dynamics, and he believes this core group may have more than just a two-year window to capture a championship.
“Absolutely. If we’re able to secure a few titles, it could extend beyond that, as I genuinely believe we have plenty of excellent basketball left to play,” he said. “Age shouldn’t be a major factor with how everyone is caring for their bodies. There’s vast potential ahead of us.”
The entire team is looking forward to a training camp together, even as changes loom on the horizon this summer during the free agency period. One of the most significant offseason questions will be the future of forward Jonathan Kuminga, who is likely to become a restricted free agent in July.
“I haven’t thought about it at all yet,” commented Kuminga, who was picked seventh overall in the 2021 draft.
For now, Curry intends to take a break from basketball and focus on spending time with his family. During the season, he averaged 24.5 points, 6.0 assists, and 4.4 rebounds while playing over 32 minutes per game.
If people refer to him as the old-timer these days, he embraces it.
“First, it’s a huge compliment because it shows the level at which you’re performing—‘Look, he’s still excelling at this age,’” Curry noted. “Second, it serves as a reminder of my basketball journey and the importance of valuing every moment I have.
“The emotional weight of how this season ended was significant, missing out on those crucial games because you can’t predict how many more chances you might have.
“However, I find solace in the difference on and off the court: witnessing my family, seeing my kids grow, and exploring off-court opportunities, all of which allow me to enjoy this chapter of my life to the fullest. I’m hopeful that the next chapter will be just as fulfilling, but for now, I want to savor every experience and make the most of what I have.”
