In the NBA’s storied history, there have been several players who became superstars because of their incredible basketball skills. However, very few had an impact that changed the landscape of the NBA forever. From the iconic rivalry of Larry Bird and Magic Johnson to the dominant era of Michael Jordan, the NBA has seen its fair share of defining moments. And 4-time Champion Stephen Curry might be in the same category as these NBA Greats.
Steph’s influence on the game of basketball is undeniable. According to Toronto Raptors head coach Darko Rajakovic, Steph’s impact on the NBA might even have surpassed that of Michael Jordan. During the Raptors’ pre-game interview, Rajakovic was asked to name the players who he believes changed the NBA. He replied, “Michael Jordan, in his era, he definitely changed basketball. But Steph Curry is the player that is at the top of the list.” The Raptors head coach claimed the world has never seen a player like Stephen Curry.
Although there have been many great guards in NBA history, there has never been a player of Steph’s size with his otherworldly shooting ability. Stephen Curry came into the NBA as a skinny 21-year-old kid in 2009. But in just a few years, he changed the league’s landscape. His influence turned a Center-dominant NBA into a league where every player needs to know how to shoot a three-pointer. Every young player in the current generation emulates Stephen Curry and wants unlimited shooting range like him. Considering how Steph has changed the way basketball is played, Rajakovic might be right in putting him over MJ in terms of impact.
Stephen Curry’s way gave results
The NBA adopted Stephen Curry’s way of playing basketball because it provided results. In his 15-year career, Steph did not just prove himself as the Greatest shooter in NBA history. He also proved his style could win games. Steph won 4 Championships and helped the Warriors become one of the Greatest dynasties in NBA history. He won back-to-back MVP trophies in 2015 and 2016. Steph even became the first-ever unanimous MVP in 2016 for leading the Warriors to NBA history’s best 73-9 regular season record.
Had Stephen Curry not won multiple Championships and dominated the league for years, other teams might not have emulated his style of basketball. So, Steph needed to prove he could make an impact on the league in his own way using his unique skillset. Thanks to Stephen Curry, every team in the NBA today has countless three-point shooters. However, no one might ever be as great as the Baby-Faced Assassin.
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