Shaun Livingston, an ex-point guard for the Warriors, recently shared insights about his experience with one of the most esteemed basketball organizations in history on a Knuckleheads Podcast. Livingston noted that Durant’s arrival marked a considerable change for the team, with Stephen Curry having to adapt significantly. Both athletes had just secured an Olympic gold medal together.
Livingston, a three-time champion, was integral to the Warriors’ remarkable success. Serving as the team’s backup point guard from 2014 to 2019, he witnessed the Warriors evolve from an NBA giant to an unparalleled force. Following KD’s joining, here are Livingston’s reflections on Steph Curry.
Livingston remarked, “There was no issue welcoming KD with open arms, and I was fine with him taking the majority of shots and all that. It was challenging for Steph because there was a need for adaptation. He didn’t truly adjust until the Christmas game.”
He continued, “It was more of an a**hole type of persona. Steph wasn’t that way. Yet, he retained that competitive killer instinct on the court, but he’s reserved, a good guy, well-spoken, correct? He comes from a strong background, all the elements that made it distinctly different, and he made you feel at ease on the court with him, despite being a superstar, which is something you don’t encounter often.”
Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond initiated the movement, but Kevin Durant’s arrival solidified their status as a dynasty. After the Warriors conquered them in the playoffs in 2016, he stunned the NBA by teaming up with Curry, making the Warriors nearly invincible.
Do you believe this was advantageous for Curry, as they clinched the title shortly thereafter? This season, Curry lacks substantial support since the Warriors were unable to secure some notable names.
How Did The Warriors Achieve Domination in the NBA Due to Kevin Durant and Stephen Curry’s Partnership?
Curry often deferred to Durant regarding on-court decisions. Consequently, the Warriors reigned supreme in the West for three consecutive years. They brought home the championship in back-to-back years, in 2017 and 2018. However, had Durant and Klay Thompson not faced season-ending injuries during the NBA Finals, they might have lifted the trophy again in 2019.
In the summer of 2019, Durant opted to leave and pursue a partnership with Kyrie Irving on the Brooklyn Nets, fully aware that it was Curry’s team. He would depart from Curry and Klay, but it would take only a few years before they triumphed over the Boston Celtics in the 2022 Finals to secure their fourth championship.
Curry continues to make sacrifices today, whether it’s being accommodating with the management, adjusting to new teammates, or being open to modifying his style of play. The Warriors are not forecasted to capture it all next season.
Nevertheless, if Curry remains in good health, they could still pose a threat. Steph enjoys complete freedom to utilize all his skills without Durant or Klay Thompson, and he intends to do just that in his 16th season.
Also Read: Los Angeles Lakers Land Stephen Curry To Form Dream Pairing With LeBron James In Blockbuster 4-Team Trade Proposal That Would Set The NBA On Fireworks
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