When Bill Simmons floated the idea of a Stephen Curry-for-LaMelo Ball trade, it made waves - as you'd expect when the face of a franchise is even hypothetically on the move. But let’s be clear: Curry isn’t going anywhere.
The Warriors didn’t entertain the notion, and for good reason. He’s not just the engine of their offense - he is the culture in Golden State.
That said, it seems the Charlotte Hornets might’ve taken the chatter to heart - or at least showed just how much they respect Curry’s game. During Saturday’s matchup, Charlotte’s defense keyed in on Curry with a level of intensity that felt personal.
In one particularly surreal moment during the second quarter, Curry casually walked toward the tunnel - not as part of a play, just a deliberate stroll - and Hornets guard Collin Sexton still followed him, staying locked in like Curry was about to pull up from the concession stand. It was the kind of moment that makes you do a double take.
Not something you see every night.
Golden State didn’t just win - they rolled, putting up 136 points to Charlotte’s 116. Curry had a relatively quiet night by his standards: 14 points, three rebounds, and five assists in 30 minutes.
But that’s the thing - even when he’s not lighting up the scoreboard, his presence warps defenses. De’Anthony Melton led the charge with 24 points, Draymond Green added 20, and rookie Brandin Podziemski chipped in 16.
The win bumped the Warriors to 24-19 on the season, a sign that this team is finding its rhythm with a mix of veterans and emerging talent.
After the game, Curry addressed the Hornets’ unique approach to guarding him. His response? Classic Steph - thoughtful, honest, and with a touch of humor.
“There’s a part of you that fights it just because it’s not real basketball,” Curry said. “But there’s also a part of it that’s flattering.
Just knowing that you demand that much attention, and also what it does to create shots for other guys on the floor. I’ve seen it all, so I know if that’s how they wanna guard, how I can be effective - not letting it take me out of the game, but also use it to our advantage as a team.
It’s also funny at times just how egregious it is.”
That’s the duality of Curry’s greatness. He’s a constant magnet for defenders, even when he’s not the focal point of the offense on a given night.
And he knows how to use that gravity to open up the floor for his teammates. It’s part of what makes him such a unique superstar - he doesn’t have to dominate the ball to dominate the game.
And make no mistake: Curry’s not looking for an exit. He’s fully invested in this Warriors squad, especially as the younger core continues to grow under his leadership. With four titles already under his belt, he’s not chasing a new chapter - he’s focused on adding to the legacy he’s built in Golden State.
So while trade talk might stir up headlines, the only place Curry’s going is back to the gym, back to the film room, and back to work with the team he’s helped turn into a dynasty.