- Star power has encompassed Golden State’s run between 2011 and 2023
- Stephen Curry has been the face of the franchise for over 12 years
- Four championships have been won over this period
The Golden State Warriors have been involved with tremendous success over the past decade and a half because they have made six NBA Finals appearances and won four championships. Thanks to the core of Stephen Curry, Klay Thompson, and Draymond Green, the franchise has been in tremendous shape with players clicking with each other for years.
The Warriors have been a wonderful example of how running a franchise well and building team chemistry on the court can result in unbelievable success. Mainly building their players from the draft and also making shocking trades and free agency decisions, Golden State has not wasted a single season doing what’s best for them in the Western Conference.
As a result, it is time to look at the best player on the Warriors between the 2011 and 2023 seasons to get an indication of who has been carrying the franchise for the longest time.
2010-11 - Monta Ellis
Stats: 24.1 PPG, 3.5 RPG, 5.6 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Achievements And Awards: N/A
During the 2010-11 season, Monta Ellis emerged as a standout player for the Golden State Warriors. His stats were nothing short of impressive, averaging 24.1 points per game, 3.5 rebounds, 5.6 assists, 2.1 steals, and 0.3 blocks. While Ellis didn't have any specific awards or championships to his name during his time with the Warriors, his on-court presence and scoring ability were undeniable.
He provided the team with a much-needed offensive spark, and his exciting style of play made him a fan favorite. Although this season didn't result in notable team accomplishments, it marked the beginning of a new era for the Warriors, setting the stage for future success, led by another iconic figure, Stephen Curry. But first, it was David Lee who was the man of the team for the next two seasons.
2011-12 - David Lee
Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 20.1 PPG, 9.6 RPG, 2.8 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Achievements And Awards: N/A
In the 2011-12 season, the Golden State Warriors saw a significant contribution from power forward David Lee. Lee's impressive statistics that season included averaging 20.1 points per game, 9.6 rebounds, 2.8 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.4 blocks. While this season didn't bring home any individual awards or team championships, David Lee's consistent scoring and rebounding were crucial for the Warriors.
His ability to dominate the paint and provide a double-double threat night in and night out made him a vital component of the team. Despite the lack of accolades, Lee's hard work and dedication were evident on the court, setting a positive example for his teammates and solidifying his place in Warriors history during this era.
2012-13 - David Lee
Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 18.5 PPG, 11.2 RPG, 3.5 APG, 0.8 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Third Team Selection
David Lee continued to be a force to be reckoned with for the Golden State Warriors in the 2012-13 season. Averaging 18.5 points, 11.2 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 0.8 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game, Lee's impact on the team was undeniable. This season marked a significant milestone in his career as he earned an All-Star selection and was named to the All-NBA Third Team. Lee's ability to contribute both offensively and on the boards was instrumental in the Warriors' success during this season.
His All-Star nod and All-NBA recognition were well-deserved acknowledgments of his consistent and impactful play, showcasing his importance to the team's rise in the NBA ranks. While the Warriors didn't claim a championship that year and only made the second round of the playoffs, Lee's stellar performance solidified his legacy as one of the standout players of the era.
2013-14 - Stephen Curry
Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 24.0 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 8.5 APG, 1.6 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team
During the 2013-14 season, Stephen Curry continued to showcase his incredible skills and leadership for the Golden State Warriors. Averaging 24.0 points, 4.3 rebounds, 8.5 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game, Curry displayed his scoring and playmaking abilities. This season, he earned a well-deserved All-Star selection, solidifying his status as one of the league's top players.
While the Warriors didn't capture an NBA championship during this particular season, Curry's impact on the team was undeniable. His efforts on the floor were recognized with a spot on the All-NBA Second Team and the player led the Warriors to the first round of the playoffs although they lost to the Los Angeles Clippers.
2014-15 - Stephen Curry
Stats: 23.8 PPG, 4.3 RPG, 7.7 APG, 2.0 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection
The 2014-15 season marked a turning point in Golden State Warriors' history, largely thanks to the incredible performance of Stephen Curry. Averaging 23.8 points, 4.3 rebounds, 7.7 assists, 2.0 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game, Curry not only displayed his scoring prowess but also showcased his playmaking abilities. This was a breakout year for the sharpshooting point guard, as he led the Warriors to their first NBA championship in 40 years.
Curry's remarkable season earned him a slew of accolades, including the NBA Most Valuable Player award, All-Star recognition, and a spot on the All-NBA First Team. His three-point shooting prowess, dazzling ball-handling, and ability to take over games made him the face of not only the Warriors but also the entire league. This season was a defining moment in Stephen Curry's career and solidified his status as one of the greatest players in the franchise's history.
2015-16 - Stephen Curry
Stats: 30.1 PPG, 5.4 RPG, 6.7 APG, 2.1 SPG, 0.2 BPG
Achievements And Awards: MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection, Scoring Champion, Steals Champion
The 2015-16 season was nothing short of historic for Stephen Curry and the Golden State Warriors. With statistics that read 30.1 points per game, 5.4 rebounds, 6.7 assists, 2.1 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game, Curry's performance reached an entirely new level.
It was a season where he not only dominated games but redefined the boundaries of what a point guard could achieve. Curry's astounding scoring ability earned him a second consecutive NBA Most Valuable Player award, further solidifying his place among the all-time greats.
He was not only an All-Star but also a selection to the All-NBA First Team. Additionally, he claimed the NBA scoring champion title and led the league in steals, while joining the esteemed 50-40-90 club. This season stands as a pinnacle in Stephen Curry's career and was a critical chapter in the Warriors' journey to becoming one of the most dominant teams in recent NBA history.
2016-17 - Kevin Durant
Stats: 25.1 PPG, 8.3 RPG, 4.8 SPG, 1.1 SPG, 1.6 BPG
Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, Finals MVP, All-Star, All-NBA Second Team
The 2016-17 season marked a game-changing moment for the Golden State Warriors, thanks to the addition of superstar Kevin Durant in free agency. Durant's stats that season were nothing short of impressive, averaging 25.3 points, 4.5 rebounds, 6.6 assists, 1.8 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game. His arrival in the Bay Area had an immediate and transformative impact, propelling the Warriors to an NBA championship.
Durant's remarkable performances throughout the season and the playoffs earned him the NBA Finals MVP title, showcasing his clutch play in the biggest moments. Against LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers, the superstar posted 35.2 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game.
In addition to his championship and MVP honors, Durant was named an All-Star and secured a spot on the All-NBA Second Team. His combination of scoring ability, defensive prowess, and versatility made him an essential component of the Warriors' success, and his arrival solidified the team's status as a basketball powerhouse during this era.
2017-18 - Kevin Durant
Stats: 26.4 PPG, 6.8 RPG, 5.4 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.8 BPG
Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, Finals MVP, All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection
Kevin Durant continued to shine as a cornerstone of the Golden State Warriors during the 2017-18 season. With statistics averaging 26.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, 6.1 assists, 1.6 steals, and 0.2 blocks per game, Durant showcased his scoring prowess and playmaking ability.
This season, Durant once again played a pivotal role in the Warriors' journey to an NBA championship, earning him his second consecutive NBA Finals MVP title by posting 28.8 points, 10.8 rebounds, and 7.5 assists per game. His clutch performances in the playoffs demonstrated his ability to rise to the occasion when it mattered most.
Durant's impact extended beyond individual accolades, as he also secured All-Star recognition and a place on the All-NBA First Team. His seamless integration into the team's system and his exceptional skill set made him an indispensable asset, solidifying the Warriors as a dominant force in the league for yet another year.
2018-19 - Kevin Durant
Stats: 26.0 PPG, 6.4 RPG, 5.9 APG, 0.7 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team Selection, All-Star Game MVP
In the 2018-19 season, Kevin Durant continued to be a force of nature for the Golden State Warriors. Averaging 26.0 points, 6.4 rebounds, 5.9 assists, 0.7 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, Durant showcased his incredible scoring ability and versatility.
Although the Warriors faced formidable challenges during this season including key injuries and eventually a loss in the NBA Finals, Durant's presence on the court remained invaluable. He was once again selected as an All-Star, underlining his status as one of the league's premier talents.
Notably, Durant's performance in the All-Star Game earned him the All-Star Game MVP award, adding to his growing list of accolades. While he didn't secure a spot on the All-NBA First Team this time, he was named to the All-NBA Second Team, a testament to his continued excellence. Durant's contributions remained critical as the Warriors aimed for a third consecutive NBA championship and even if they did not get it, his legacy as one of the franchise's all-time greats was firmly established during his tenure with the team.
2019-20 - D’Angelo Russell
Credit: Kyle Terada-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 23.6 PPG, 3.7 RPG, 6.2 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.3 BPG
Achievements And Awards: N/A
The 2019-20 season marked a transitional period for the Golden State Warriors as Stephen Curry only played 5 games and Klay Thompson missed the entire season. D'Angelo Russell stepped into a significant role by posting impressive stats of 23.6 points, 3.7 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 0.9 steals, and 0.3 blocks per game, bringing his scoring and playmaking talents to the team.
While this season did not yield individual awards or team championships, Russell's contributions were notable. Russell's performance served as a bridge during a period of transition for the franchise, showcasing his potential impact on the team's future although he would be traded the following season with two-way wing Andrew Wiggins coming on board.
2020-21 - Stephen Curry
Credit: Ron Chenoy-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 32.0 PPG, 5.5 RPG, 5.8 APG, 1.2 SPG, 0.1 BPG
Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA First Team Selection, Scoring Champion
The 2020-21 season witnessed a transcendent performance by Stephen Curry, solidifying his legacy as one of the greatest players in Golden State Warriors history. Curry's statistics that season were nothing short of spectacular, averaging a league-leading 32.0 points per game, along with 5.5 rebounds, 5.8 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.1 blocks per game. His scoring ability reached new heights, earning him the title of the NBA Scoring Champion.
Not only did Curry lead the league in scoring, but he also displayed his all-around game, contributing in various facets. His impact was duly recognized with an All-Star selection and a well-deserved spot on the All-NBA First Team. However, the team missed the playoffs rather surprisingly as Klay Thompson missed the entire season with a torn Achilles, and the point guard was left by himself.
2021-22 - Stephen Curry
Stats: 30.3 PPG, 8.2 RPG, 6.2 APG, 1.3 SPG, 1.1 BPG
Achievements And Awards: NBA Champion, Finals MVP, All-Star, All-NBA Second Team Selection, All-Star Game MVP
The 2021-22 season was another remarkable chapter in the storied career of Stephen Curry. With statistics that included 30.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, 6.2 assists, 1.3 steals, and 1.1 blocks per game, Curry continued to dazzle fans and opponents alike. However, what made this season truly special was the culmination of team success as the Golden State Warriors clinched the NBA championship.
Curry's leadership and scoring prowess played a pivotal role in securing the championship, earning him the NBA Finals MVP award for the first time. Against the young and hungry Boston Celtics in the Finals, the point guard averaged 31.2 points, 6.0 rebounds, and 5.0 assists per game on 43.7% from three.
2022-23 - Stephen Curry
Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports
Stats: 29.4 PPG, 6.1 RPG, 6.3 APG, 0.9 SPG, 0.4 BPG
Achievements And Awards: All-Star, All-NBA Second Team Selection
This past season, Stephen Curry once again proved he was the best point guard in the world, averaging 29.4 points per game on 42.7% shooting from deep despite being 35 years of age. The superstar point guard not only got it done on offense but also in other aspects including rebounding and passing. We were seeing a complete version of Curry even if he was slightly slower moving without the ball.
Curry made the All-Star Team and finished with his ninth All-NBA Team selection, leading the Warriors to the sixth seed in the Western Conference. The Warriors ended up defeating the Sacramento Kings in the first round but fell in the second round to LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. As Curry approaches the twilight of his career, we must look back and remember how the point guard has truly changed the game for good.
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