Kevin Garnett’s comments about players from the current era not being able to succeed in the previous era of the NBA have garnered some pushback. Stephen A. Smith noted that LeBron James’ physical presence would allow him to find success in the previous era, and Stephen Curry’s once-in-a-generation shooting ability would help him do the same.
“You can’t tell me that a LeBron at 6’9″ 260 [pounds] couldn’t deal with the physicality of the old days because he would’ve been hurting people… Steph Curry could’ve played in the old days because you just don’t teach shooting ability like that… LeBron James? Any era.”
Garnett’s comments came in the wake of Anthony Edwards claiming that Michael Jordan was the only player of his era who had skills. This statement didn’t sit well with a lot of players from the previous generation, as it came across as disrespectful and dismissive of the stars that paved the way for him.
Few fans considered Garnett’s comments as applying to LeBron James, as James found success in the more physical period of the NBA, playing against the likes of Garnett and other older stars who used their physical presence to dominate on the court, and found success during that period.
As for Stephen Curry, Smith is absolutely correct about his talent and finding success in the NBA in any era. Perhaps Curry’s success would be halted in the pre-three-point line era, but Curry would have been able to do really well at any point in the NBA, barring any coaches refusing to play a three-point-oriented style of play.
LeBron James And Stephen Curry Closing Out Their Careers
Despite nearing the end of their careers, LeBron James and Stephen Curry are still two of the best players in the NBA. James and Curry took Team USA to gold medal glory at the 2024 Olympics, giving fans the chance to see the two mercurial stars play together for the first time in their careers.
Now returning to the NBA, both players are focused on their respective franchises. Curry recently signed a one-year, $62.6 million contract extension with the Golden State Warriors. This extension allowed Curry to become just the third player in NBA history to earn $500 million from his on-court earnings, along with LeBron James and Kevin Durant.
As for LeBron James, he is focused on playing with the Lakers, getting the chance to play with his son Bronny in the NBA. The two will become the first father-son duo to play together in NBA history.
James and Curry are still vying for championships. Curry noted after signing his contract extension that the goal for him and the Warriors is still to continue winning. As for James, he still has Anthony Davis by his side, and the duo have shown that they can win championships. The next season will be pivotal for both generational stars.
Be the first to comment