In the NBA, teaming up with the legendary Steph Curry is a dream for many players. Yet, quite surprisingly, a few players have chosen not to join the Golden State Warriors superstar. Motivated by family ties, personal goals, loyalty, or bad blood, these athletes have turned down the golden opportunity to play alongside one of the greatest shooters in basketball history.
Paul George
During a July 8, 2024 episode of Podcast P, Paul George disclosed that he nearly joined the Golden State Warriors to team up with Steph Curry and Draymond Green. The potential partnership seemed promising. However, the deal fell through due to complications in the trade negotiations.
Paul George (cont.)
The Los Angeles Clippers, George’s current team, refused to accept the trade terms proposed by the Warriors. This decision ultimately prevented the formation of what could have been a formidable duo in the league. George opted out of his contract at the last minute and chose to stay with the Clippers.
Jimmy Butler
Jimmy Butler, a potential Golden State Warriors target, is unlikely to join Steph Curry due to concerns over his fitness and long injury history. The proposed trade, if successful, could significantly revamp the Warriors’ performance. Butler’s tenacious defense, leadership, and scoring ability could provide the Warriors with a much-needed boost, especially in crucial game situations.
Jimmy Butler (cont.)
The Warriors haven’t had a reliable second scorer to take the pressure off Curry, and Jimmy Butler may be the best fit for this role. His ability to create his own shot and facilitate for others could open up new offensive possibilities for the team. However, the Warriors’ management seems hesitant due to Butler’s injury concerns.
Giannis Antetokounmpo
Giannis Antetokounmpo responded to a fan’s request that he join the Golden State Warriors, hinting at interest in the idea. The prospect of Giannis teaming up with Steph Curry created a buzz among NBA fans. The combination of Curry’s shooting and Antetokounmpo’s dominance could potentially form one of the most formidable duos in NBA history.
Giannis Antetokounmpo (cont.)
However, as of the time of writing, Giannis’s future with the Bucks remains uncertain. He has chosen to stay with the Milwaukee Bucks, demonstrating loyalty to the team that drafted him. This decision showcases Antetokounmpo’s commitment to bringing a championship to Milwaukee, rather than joining a superteam.
Seth Curry
Seth Curry, Steph’s younger brother, turned down the chance to play alongside his sibling in Golden State. Instead, Seth has chosen to forge his own identity in the NBA, determined to step out of his brother’s shadow. This decision shows Curry’s desire to prove himself as an individual player rather than being perceived as ‘Steph’s little brother.’
Seth Curry (cont.)
Seth’s choice to challenge his brother on the court rather than partner up with him has led to some memorable matchups between the Curry brothers. These games have become fan favorites, showcasing the friendly rivalry and mutual respect between the siblings. Seth’s decision has allowed him to carve out his own niche in the league.
Seth Curry (cont.)
While Seth Curry may not have the same accolades as his brother, his decision to forge his own path has earned him respect around the league. He has become a valuable role player for several teams and has proved that he can contribute significantly without being in Steph’s shadow.
Monta Ellis
Monta Ellis, once a strong scorer for the Golden State Warriors, openly opposed the idea of drafting Stephen Curry. Ellis believed that he and Curry, both being smaller guards, couldn’t coexist effectively in the same backcourt. This stance ultimately led to tension within the organization and contributed to Ellis’s departure from the team.
Monta Ellis (cont.)
The Warriors eventually traded Monta Ellis for Andrew Bogut, a move that initially sparked controversy among fans but later proved crucial in the team’s path to becoming a dynasty. Ellis’s career took a significant downturn after the trade, as he played for the Mavericks and Pacers without recapturing his earlier success.
Monta Ellis (cont.)
Despite retiring in 2017, Ellis continued receiving payments from the Pacers until 2022 due to his contract terms. This financial arrangement, known as salary stretching, allowed the Pacers to spread out Ellis’s remaining salary over a longer period of time. This strategy is often used by NBA teams to manage their salary cap more effectively.
Kelly Oubre Jr.
Kelly Oubre Jr. joined the Warriors with high hopes of contributing to a championship run. However, he quickly found himself struggling to fit into the team’s offensive system, which he believed was overly focused on Stephen Curry. Oubre’s athletic ability was an asset, but his shooting inconsistency made it challenging for him to thrive.
Kelly Oubre Jr (cont.)
Oubre expressed frustration at being primarily used to set screens for Curry rather than having a more significant offensive role. He believed his skills were underutilized, feeling that he could contribute more if given the opportunity. This led to a disappointing season for both the player and the team.
Kelly Oubre Jr (cont.)
After just one season with the Warriors, Oubre departed in free agency, signing with the Charlotte Hornets. His experience with Golden State serves as an example of how even talented players can struggle to adapt to specific team systems, especially when playing alongside a generational talent like Steph Curry.
6 NBA Players That Rejected Steph Curry’s Partnership