The Golden State Warriors came into the season with championship expectations, but here we are in February, and they’ve been anything but consistent. Injuries have played a major role in their slide down the standings, and now they’re navigating another tough stretch without their cornerstone, Stephen Curry.
Curry’s current injury, while not as severe as a torn ACL, has still sidelined him for a significant stretch. For a team built around his unique gravity and offensive engine, that’s no small loss. And with Jimmy Butler already out for the season due to a torn ACL, the league is seeing some of its biggest stars shelved at a critical point in the year.
Ahead of a key matchup against the Los Angeles Lakers, Lakers head coach JJ Redick offered an interesting perspective on how the Warriors have looked without their two-time MVP. “It’s weird to say this, but I don’t necessarily think the play style has changed all that much [without Steph Curry],” Redick said. “They’re running a lot of the same stuff.”
That’s a noteworthy comment, especially coming from an opposing coach who’s preparing to face the Curry-less version of Golden State. The Warriors have long been known for their movement-heavy offense, predicated on off-ball screens, quick reads, and constant motion. Even without Curry orchestrating it, they’re sticking to the same blueprint - which speaks to the system Steve Kerr has instilled over the years.
But make no mistake, the absence of Curry changes the ceiling of this team. The Warriors may be running the same sets, but without Curry’s elite shot-making, decision-making, and the defensive attention he demands, the execution - and the results - are a different story.
For Redick and the Lakers, this is a golden opportunity. With the playoff race heating up, every win matters, and facing a Warriors team without their leader gives L.A. a chance to build some much-needed momentum.
The Lakers have had their own rollercoaster of a season, and consistency has been elusive. But with a healthy roster and LeBron James still anchoring the squad, they’re looking to capitalize.
Speaking of LeBron, Redick didn’t hold back when addressing the criticism that’s been swirling around the 41-year-old superstar. With rumors flying about a potential departure from the Lakers and some voices in the media questioning whether it’s time for him to call it a career, Redick came to his defense in a big way.
“His competitive stamina is off the charts,” Redick said. “It’s actually unfortunate how much this guy puts into it and how much he cares, and the way certain people talk about him.
It’s crazy. Come be around him every day and see how much this guy cares.
It’s off the charts.”
That’s a strong endorsement from a first-year head coach who’s getting a front-row seat to one of the game’s all-time greats. Say what you want about LeBron’s age or mileage, but his impact - both on and off the court - is still undeniable. And for a Lakers team trying to navigate a crowded Western Conference, his leadership and drive remain central to their hopes.
As the season barrels toward the All-Star break, both the Warriors and Lakers find themselves at pivotal junctures. Golden State is trying to stay afloat without its heartbeat, while the Lakers are trying to find their rhythm with theirs still going strong. What happens next could go a long way in shaping the playoff picture out West.