Warriors head coach Steve Kerr says LeBron James and Stephen Curry share surprising similarities

The Golden State Warriors have won four games in a row. They continue to prove they are serious contenders for the NBA title. Their most convincing win came against the Los Angeles Lakers. LeBron James delivered an impressive performance in the matchup. Still, Stephen Curry stood out as the top performer on the floor. After the final buzzer, Steve Kerr shared his thoughts on both superstars. He highlighted a clear similarity that sets Curry and LeBron apart from other players.

“Watching them as teammates this summer gave me a greater appreciation for their greatness and really how much alike they are…In terms of work ethic, passion for the game, respect for the game, and respect for each other. These are pretty incredible matchups and we should all savor them while they’re still happening,” stated Steve Kerr on the postgame against Lakers.

At the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, Steve Kerr had the rare opportunity to coach the U.S. men’s basketball team, featuring two of the greatest players of this generation. For the first time, he coached both Stephen Curry and LeBron James on the same squad. He has the opportunity to gain firsthand insight into the qualities that have made them historic figures in NBA history.

Despite being well into their late 30s, both stars continue to perform at elite levels this season. Stephen Curry is averaging 24.6 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 6.1 assists per game. Meanwhile, LeBron James, still dominant in his 22st season, is putting up 24.5 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 8.4 assists per game, showcasing an all-around brilliance that defies his age.

Despite both players are having great seasons, Stephen Curry stands out in one specific category. According to Stat Mamba, the Warriors star now has more all-time 50-point games than LeBron James. Curry has reached that mark 15 times. LeBron sits just behind him with 14.

Stephen Curry’s teammate could be the difference-maker in the Warriors’ NBA title run

Many NBA analysts agree on one core principle: championship teams are built on elite defense. That is why, despite the Golden State Warriors’ high-powered offense, Draymond Green remains the key to their short-term success. While his numbers on paper, 9.2 points, 6.2 rebounds, and 5.7 assists per game, might not stand out, his true impact comes on the defensive end, where he continues to anchor the team with intensity and leadership.

With Victor Wembanyama no longer eligible for the NBA Defensive Player of the Year award, Draymond Green has emerged as one of the leading candidates to take home the honor. “I do think this is one of the last best chances I have. I think I have put together a good case, and I have six or seven games to continue building that case. Whatever happens, I think I should win it,” stated Green on ESPN.

Although Draymond Green remains the cornerstone of the Warriors’ defensive identity, Jimmy Butler’s presence has become equally vital to their championship aspirations.

If Golden State Warriors’s roster can stay healthy down the stretch, the combination of Butler’s two-way dominance and Green’s defensive leadership could give Steve Kerr exactly what he needs to make another deep playoff run.