Warriors Stephen Curry vs. Suns Kevin Durant Evokes Brutal Revelation
We are nearing the sixth anniversary of Kevin Durant leaving the Golden State Warriors. Friday’s battle between the Warriors and the Phoenix Suns reignites a friendly rivalry that still causes rifts in the former franchise’s fan base. Although Durant has had more recent success in the past two seasons, Friday’s contest evokes a brutal revelation.
Stephen Curry is one of the best players of all time. As the sole unanimous MVP winner in NBA history, the Warriors’ savior is the antithesis of Durant. While Durant seeks validation by constantly changing teams and supporting stars, Curry maintains his role as the franchise’s cornerstone player and won the 2022 NBA championship accompanying the coveted Finals MVP he lacked during the Durant-era Warriors.
Although the Suns have a better record (24-22) than the Warriors (24-23), albeit by a small margin, and a better playoff track record over the past two years, the Warriors achieved what Durant failed to do since leaving Golden State in 2019.
Despite the Warriors fan base’s grievances with the front office for their current predicament, their team overachieved by beating the Boston Celtics in the 2022 NBA Finals despite trailing 2-0 to begin the series.
Furthermore, even during their 2024 Olympic run, Curry took the crown of the most popular and influential player, as his last two clutch performances saved Team USA from not qualifying for Gold for the first time in 20 years.
As Curry did during their partnership in Golden State, he continues to hold over Durant’s head as the crown jewel of the public and the vastly instrumental player on the court.
Durant won the battle during free agency in 2019, but the Warriors and Curry won the “war.”
However, as flattering as such a title is for most players, Curry would rather win the game. After beating the Oklahoma City Thunder 116-109 on Wednesday, they have the momentum necessary to triumph over the disappointing Suns.
