NBA’s Finest: Steph Curry vs. Trae Young

Who is better? How do they match up all time?

“Young's outstanding passing and ability to be a franchise cornerstone makes him one of the league's brightest young players, despite the fact he may never shoot as well as Curry does.”

TOP ARTICLE OF THE MONTH WINNER - October ‘24

Trae Young and Stephen Curry are some of the best point guards in the National Basketball Association (NBA) right now. Both players are well respected and highly feared due to their prowess at shooting and exciting playing styles. Trae Young's playmaking and shooting abilities have drawn comparisons to Steph Curry, while Curry is considered one of the greatest basketball players of all time and the greatest point guard of all time due to him revolutionizing the way people play basketball. Despite their similarities, these two players have unique qualities that separate them from each other and from each other's impact on the NBA.

The main weapon in both Young's and Curry's skill set is shooting. Steph Curry is the greatest shooter in NBA history, having broken multiple records in that area, including the record for the most three-pointers made in league history, which is 3,747 over his fifteen years in the league. His ability to make shots from long range, off the dribble, and in catch-and-shoot situations utterly changed modern basketball. His teammates have more freedom on the court when defenses have to go further to defend him because of his accuracy from way downtown, which makes him a constant threat wherever he goes. 

Although he is a phenomenal shooter, Trae Young is not as equally adept from long range as Curry is. Young and Curry are often compared due to Young's tendency for long-range shooting and taking risks. Young's three-point percentage is 36%, whereas Curry's career average is approximately 43%. Young can sink tough threes, but his consistency and efficiency is nowhere near Curry's level. However, Young is an equally deadly shooter due to his fearlessness and range, often attracting double teams and stretching defenses.

One thing Trae Young has done to differentiate himself from Curry is to make plays. Curry is an excellent passer who can guide the Warriors' offense, but Young is known for having exceptional passing ability and vision. Throughout his first several seasons, Young has consistently been among the NBA's top assist producers, averaging between 9 and 10 assists per game, which is more than Curry's career averages in this area. Young often makes bold and spectacular plays that create easy baskets for his teammates. He also has a penchant for identifying the proper pass. He might be more skilled than Curry in deceiving defenses with his passes. 

Curry, on the other hand, makes plays more subtly and frequently as part of the Warriors' moving offense. Curry may not have as many assists as Young does, but his shooting gravity creates chances for his teammates. His off-ball movement is unmatched; he is always moving and dodging screens to trick defenses and create scoring opportunities for other players. Curry doesn't just pass the ball; his ability to manipulate defenses is what makes him a playmaker.

It is well-known how Stephen Curry has influenced the game in how he plays. As the team's face, he led the Golden State Warriors to three NBA titles, including three during their famous run. Curry's hard work and loyalty to his team has made him one of the league's most popular and beloved players. His ability to lead and shoot well, as well as motivate the players around him, are some of his best traits. Curry's influence extends beyond his team; he has influenced basketball culture globally and motivated a new generation of players to concentrate on long-range shooting. 

On the other hand, Trae Young is still developing as the main options and the face of a franchise, as his career has only just begun. Having led the Atlanta Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals over the course of just six years, he has proven that he can be the leader and face of a winning team. While Young has gained recognition for his fierce competition and bravery on the court, his leadership style is still developing. Young's ability to guide his team under pressure will become an essential part of his career as the Hawks grow around him.

It is clear that Stephen Curry and Trae Young differ greatly from one another in terms of playmaking, efficiency, and leadership when comparing their shooting and floor stretching prowess. While Young is still working on his legacy, Curry's stature as one of the greatest players in NBA history and a revolutionary icon is already established. Young's outstanding passing and ability to be a franchise cornerstone makes him one of the league's brightest young players, despite the fact he may never shoot as well as Curry does. Both athletes will continue to have an impact on basketball's future on their own. 

Vicram D.

10th Grade, Wheatley School
Hobbies/Interests: Wrestling, Reading, Cars

Why I write: I write because it is a necessity in the world, an important skill in the workforce. I also write because I enjoy writing. It allows me to connect with people on a deeper level, and helps me understand my own self in times of self-doubt. Moreover, I write because I want to challenge myself into becoming the best writer I can be. Writing allows me to expand and raise my knowledge, and that makes it an integral part of my life.

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