The Plight of the Steph-less Warriors

The Golden State Warriors’ 2024–25 season concluded with a disappointing playoff exit, underscoring the team’s heavy reliance on Stephen Curry. Despite a commendable 48–34 regular-season record and a midseason acquisition of Jimmy Butler, the Warriors struggled without their star point guard, particularly in the postseason.

Curry’s Absence and Its Impact

Stephen Curry’s hamstring injury during Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against the Minnesota Timberwolves proved pivotal. Without him, the Warriors’ offensive efficiency plummeted, and they lost the subsequent four games, culminating in a 4–1 series defeat. Curry’s presence had been instrumental, with the team boasting a 7–5 record in his absence during the regular season, but his leadership and playmaking were irreplaceable in high-stakes playoff scenarios.

The Butler Acquisition

In a bold move, the Warriors traded for Jimmy Butler midseason, aiming to bolster their roster for a deep playoff run. While Butler contributed significantly, including a standout 38-point performance in the play-in game against the Memphis Grizzlies, his efforts couldn’t compensate for Curry’s absence. The team’s offense lacked its usual fluidity, and Butler faced challenges adapting to the Warriors’ system under playoff pressure.

Emerging Talent: Jonathan Kuminga

Jonathan Kuminga emerged as a bright spot during the playoffs, delivering a career-high 30 points in Game 3 against the Timberwolves. His athleticism and scoring ability provided a glimpse into the Warriors’ future potential. However, inconsistencies and reported tensions regarding his role highlighted the challenges of integrating young talent into a veteran-heavy lineup.

Looking Ahead

The Warriors face critical decisions in the offseason. With Curry at 37 and Butler at 35, the team’s core is aging, and salary cap constraints loom large. Retaining promising players like Kuminga and addressing roster imbalances, particularly in size and three-point shooting, will be essential. General Manager Mike Dunleavy and Head Coach Steve Kerr remain optimistic, emphasizing the need for strategic adjustments to return to championship contention.

In summary, the Warriors’ playoff struggles without Stephen Curry have illuminated the team’s dependence on their star player. As they navigate the challenges of an aging roster and financial limitations, the upcoming season will be pivotal in determining the franchise’s trajectory in the post-Curry era.