Entering the offseason, the Golden State Warriors’ front office identified the need for a more established second scorer next to Stephen Curry as a high priority, team sources said. The Warriors had Paul George and Lauri Markkanen atop a select wish list of realistically available and appealing players and chased both, in that order. They were willing to sacrifice a chunk of their first-round draft capital and a slice of their youth movement.

Stephen Curry has cemented his place in NBA history as one of the greatest players of all time. With multiple championships, MVP awards, and a revolutionary impact on the game, Curry’s legacy is secure. However, as he enters the twilight years of his career, questions arise about whether the Golden State Warriors’ front office is doing enough to maximize his remaining prime years.

The Golden Era and Its Decline

The Warriors’ dynasty was built on a perfect blend of homegrown talent, savvy free-agent acquisitions, and a system that maximized the strengths of its players. The trio of Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, coupled with the addition of Kevin Durant, brought about a period of dominance that the NBA had rarely seen. However, as injuries, age, and departures have taken their toll, the roster’s ability to compete at the highest level has come into question.

In the post-Durant era, the Warriors have tried to rebuild on the fly, balancing the need to contend now with developing younger players for the future. While this approach is understandable, given the uncertainty of Curry’s timeline, it has resulted in a roster that seems stuck in limbo.

Missed Opportunities and Questionable Decisions

The Warriors’ front office, led by Bob Myers, has made some bold moves in recent years. The acquisition of Andrew Wiggins and the drafting of James Wiseman were seen as high-upside decisions that could prolong the team’s championship window. However, these moves have not panned out as expected.

Wiggins, while a solid player, has not proven to be the reliable second option that Curry needs. His inconsistency, especially in high-pressure situations, has raised concerns about his fit alongside the Warriors’ core. Wiseman, on the other hand, has struggled with injuries and development issues, making it unclear whether he can contribute meaningfully in the short term.

Moreover, the decision to keep young prospects like Jonathan Kuminga and Moses Moody instead of trading them for more proven talent has been a point of contention. While these players have potential, their ability to contribute to a championship-caliber team alongside Curry remains uncertain.

The Clock is Ticking

Steph Curry is still playing at an MVP level, but at 36 years old, the window for him to win another championship is rapidly closing. The Warriors cannot afford to waste his remaining prime years with a roster that is not fully equipped to contend.

The current roster, while talented, lacks the depth and consistency that defined the Warriors’ championship teams. The supporting cast around Curry needs to be more reliable, and the front office must make bold moves to surround him with the right mix of veterans and proven talent.

What Needs to Change?

To truly maximize Curry’s remaining years, the Warriors need to make some tough decisions. This may involve parting with young assets or taking risks in the trade market to acquire players who can immediately impact winning. The front office must also be more decisive in free agency, targeting players who fit their system and can contribute in meaningful ways.

Additionally, the Warriors need to reassess their long-term vision. While it’s important to think about the future, the priority should be winning now. Curry has given everything to the franchise, and the front office owes it to him to build a team capable of competing for a championship every year he’s on the court.

Conclusion

Steph Curry’s greatness deserves to be surrounded by a roster that can compete at the highest level. While the Warriors’ front office has made efforts to strike a balance between the present and the future, the current roster construction raises concerns about whether they are truly maximizing Curry’s remaining years.

The clock is ticking, and the Warriors need to act swiftly and decisively. Failing to do so would not only squander Curry’s prime but also tarnish the legacy of one of the greatest dynasties in NBA history. The front office must rise to the occasion, making the necessary moves to ensure that Curry’s final chapters are as glorious as the ones that came before.