Brett Davis – USA Today Sports Images
Everyone knew that Golden State Warriors point guard Stephen Curry was good, but he proved in the 2012-2013 NBA season that he has the potential to be better than just good. In just his fourth season in the league, Curry showed that he is on the precipice of becoming one of the most memorable players of this era in the league.
Curry was able to stay healthy for all of last season, playing in 78 games for the Warriors last year. He averaged 22.9 points, 6.9 assists, four rebounds and 1.6 steals in 38.2 minutes per game. Curry also shot a solid 45.1 percent from the floor and an unreal, especially considering that he took 7.7 threes per game, 45.3 percent from long-range.
There’s no denying that Curry had moments of greatness last season, most notably his 54-point performance in Madison Square Garden, but he still has some growth left to do as a player and a point guard in this league. Given that, one has to wonder what’s next for Curry if he’s going to make the leap in the 2013-2014 season.
With the arrival of Andre Iguodala to the Warriors, one might assume there will be fewer opportunities for Curry to shine this season. However, the arrival of Iguodala should provide Curry more opportunities to grow as a facilitator and passer, which is really the next step for him.
We all know that Curry can score and shoot the rock, but he hasn’t consistently been great in terms of facilitating his teammates. He’s an extremely capable passer, but he’s never been around guys that differentiate terribly from his offensive skill-set, namely shooting threes. Iguodala will provide a slashing wing that can open up the floor more for Curry in the offense.
Essentially, Curry needs to develop more as an overall playmaker this season. He has the tools in place to help him do that and it will be interesting to see if he elevates himself to elite status or if he stays as just a dynamic scoring point guard.
Cody Williams is a Senior Writer with Rant Sports. Follow Cody on Twitter @TheSizzle20, add him on Google and like his Facebook page.
