Stephen Curry: The NBA’s Greatest Sidekick or The Unquestioned Superstar?…

Stephen Curry: The NBA’s Greatest Sidekick or The Unquestioned Superstar?…

When the discussion turns to NBA sidekicks, the names that often emerge are Scottie Pippen to Michael Jordan, Klay Thompson to Stephen Curry, or Dwyane Wade alongside LeBron James. But some hot takes have placed Curry himself on the sidekick list, a perspective that is not only surprising but arguably overlooks his transformative impact on the game.

Stephen Curry, four-time NBA champion and two-time MVP, has an extraordinary skill set that doesn’t typically define a sidekick. His ability to shoot from virtually anywhere on the court, his innovative style of play, and his leadership have helped reshape how basketball is played at every level. Curry’s record-breaking shooting opened up the game and set a precedent that almost every team in the league has attempted to emulate. No one questioned Curry’s ability to lead when he took the Warriors to a 73-9 record in the 2015-2016 season, despite losing to LeBron’s Cavaliers in the Finals.

One argument that fuels this “sidekick” take comes from the arrival of Kevin Durant. When Durant joined the Warriors in 2016, the Warriors became almost unbeatable. Durant’s presence did shift Curry’s role slightly, as the team dynamics changed to accommodate another superstar. For some, Durant’s Finals MVPs and scoring ability seemed to push Curry into a secondary position. But even with Durant’s dominance, Curry was the orchestrator who made the Warriors’ offense flow. He led by example, drawing defenders out to the perimeter and creating opportunities for his teammates.

If Curry is considered a sidekick, it’s due to his humility and willingness to share the spotlight. Unlike many superstars, Curry has shown he can thrive both as a primary scorer and as a facilitator. This selflessness has led to an era of team-first basketball in Golden State. Still, Curry’s performances without Durant—like his 50-point game at 35 years old—are a testament to his sustained excellence as a team leader.

Ultimately, Curry is better seen as an adaptable superstar, not a sidekick. His presence has been central to Golden State’s rise, from an overlooked team to a dynasty. Dismissing him as the “greatest sidekick” fails to capture his true value as a leader and innovator. Far from being just a complementary player, Curry is a basketball legend whose legacy is tied to his brilliance, his leadership, and his impact on the game.