“He’s the closest to Michael Jordan in his impact and MJ did the same thing” – Klay Thompson explains why Stephen Curry might return from retirement
Draymond and Klay feel Steph is the most likely among them to come out of retirement.
Acknowledging that the Golden State Warriors’ Big 3 have entered the later stages of their careers, each was recently questioned about who among them is most likely to come out of retirement.
According to Klay Thompson, Stephen Curry is the prime candidate, citing the two-time MVP’s proximity to Michael Jordan’s legacy and expressing the belief that Curry would be motivated to extend his influence on the next generation, just like ‘His Airness.’
“Probably say, Steph because of the three obviously, he’s the closest to Michael Jordan in his impact and MJ did the same thing,” Thompson said. “I could just see Steph sitting at home, like, ‘I still got it.'”
they've played 12 seasons together
they've played 681 games togetherbut how well do they know each other?
In honor of 11.30.23, we're talking Core Memories with Klay, Steph & Dray! pic.twitter.com/vk5gDOC0AH
— Golden State Warriors (@warriors) November 30, 2023
Having already changed the modern-day NBA single-handedly with his 3-point shooting prowess, Klay is indeed right in claiming that his Splash Brother is the only player to have a similar impact on another generation of players other than MJ.
Green double-downs on Klay’s take
In contrast to Thompson’s opinion, Chef picked him, citing the 5-time All-Star’s unpredictable nature and sarcastically suggesting how Klay might want to return, solely because of getting bored sitting alone at home.
On the other hand, Draymond aligned with the 6-foot-6 sharpshooter, and picked Curry by emphasizing his commitment to fitness. The 2017 DPOY asserted that the 3-Point King is likely to stay in top physical condition for a longer period of time as compared to him and Thompson.
“Klay and I both will get out of shape,” Green said. “He won’t get out of shape.”
Curry has no plans of slowing down
Echoing the sentiments of his teammates, the nine-time All-Star has consistently emphasized his determination not to let his guard down in the NBA. This commitment remains steadfast, particularly considering his capability to maintain an impressive average of 29.4 points per game during the regular season, even at the age of 34.
“I don’t see myself slowing down any time soon,” Curry said.
Steph Curry was asked at the Sports Illustrated Sportsperson of the Year Awards how long he thinks he can play, his response: “I don’t see myself slowing down any time soon.” At 34-years-old, Curry is averaging 30ppg while shooting 50/43/91 #dubnation pic.twitter.com/TjclHXNNzR
— Kylen Mills (@KylenMills) December 9, 2022
However, as Curry is now in the final three years of his current contract and Thompson desperately seeking a contract renewal, it will be interesting to see who among the Warriors’ Big 3 does bid adieu first.
