The Golden State Warriors are looking strong heading into the new season, positioning themselves as formidable contenders in the playoffs with their revamped roster. However, many fans can’t shake the thought of what could have been had Stephen Curry and Jimmy Butler teamed up a few years earlier, specifically three years ago when both were in their prime.
This scenario reflects a familiar narrative in the NBA where superstar players form alliances slightly beyond their peak years. A noteworthy example is the pairing of Steve Nash and Kobe Bryant on the Los Angeles Lakers. While both players were capable of delivering impressive performances in 2012, their most dominant days were behind them. Nevertheless, their combination brought much excitement, raising questions about how they might have fared had they joined forces in 2006 instead.
Imagining a younger Butler alongside Curry stirs excitement among Warriors fans. Had they partnered during the 2022-23 season, Golden State would have harnessed Butler’s clutch performance and star power just as he was emerging from a championship run and earning a Finals MVP award. While the current duo of Curry and Butler still holds promise in 2025, the thought of Curry teaming up with a peak Butler from two years prior certainly ignites nostalgia for fans reminiscing about missed opportunities.
Butler’s playoff performances, particularly in 2020 and 2023, stand out as some of the most remarkable runs without capturing a championship in the 21st century. His resilience and skill on the court positioned him as a fierce competitor, though he faced tough opposition from heavyweights like LeBron James and Nikola Jokic in those finals.
Now, as Butler approaches 36, he remains a vital contributor for the Warriors, capable of elevating their game come playoff time. However, the reality is that he may not possess the same game-changing impact he once did, leading to palpable feelings of “fear of missing out” among Warriors fans dreaming of a different timeline. The potential of a Curry-Butler duo in their primes leaves a tantalizing question of what might have been for a franchise always striving for excellence.