Why Stephen Curry Thinks the Celtics Have Nothing to Worry About

The Boston Celtics have experienced a recent rough patch during their pursuit of back-to-back NBA titles. Despite this, Golden State Warriors superstar Stephen Curry, who knows a thing or two about defending championships, believes the Celtics are still in an excellent position. Here’s why Curry remains optimistic about Boston’s chances.

Celtics’ Recent Struggles: A Minor Bump in the Road

After an impressive 125-85 victory over the Warriors, the Celtics demonstrated their championship-caliber potential. However, their recent performance has been inconsistent, going 4-4 in their last eight games. This stretch included an overtime loss to the Atlanta Hawks and a double-digit defeat to the rebuilding Toronto Raptors.

Despite these setbacks, the Celtics have shown resilience. Against the Warriors, they dominated with a 43-point third quarter and impressive shooting percentages, reminding fans of their formidable capabilities.

Stephen Curry’s Perspective: A Season Is a Marathon

Curry, a key figure in the Warriors’ 2017-18 back-to-back championship run, understands the unique pressures defending champions face. He emphasized that the Celtics’ struggles are part of the natural ebb and flow of an NBA season:

“It’s a marathon of a season. You’re getting everybody’s best shot every night. Teams spent all summer trying to figure out how to beat you because you’re the one that was holding up the trophy.”

Curry highlighted how the high expectations placed on reigning champions can lead to scrutiny during even minor slumps.

Boston’s Strength in Numbers

Against the Warriors, Boston displayed the depth and efficiency that helped them secure their 18th championship last season:

• The Celtics shot 53.3% from the field, with all five starters shooting at least 45%.
• They dominated the paint, scoring 52 points, compared to the Warriors’ 26 points.
• Golden State struggled offensively, with Curry leading his team with just 18 points in 27 minutes.

This performance showcased the Celtics’ ability to bounce back from adversity and deliver commanding victories against strong opponents.

High Expectations in Beantown

With a current record of 30-13, the Celtics are far from struggling by most standards. However, compared to last season’s dominance—when they lost just 18 games all year—the bar is set high in Boston.

Curry dismissed the notion that the Celtics are in trouble, stating:

“I don’t know what people expected, but they’re 30-13. They’re doing alright.”

Boston’s passionate fanbase and high expectations magnify every stumble, but Curry’s comments provide valuable perspective.

The Challenges of Going Back-to-Back

Repeating as champions is one of the toughest feats in professional sports. No reigning NBA champion has appeared in the Finals the year after winning it all since Curry’s 2018-19 Warriors. The grueling 82-game season, combined with postseason pressure, creates unique challenges for defending champs.

Curry emphasized that regular-season success is important but not the only factor for playoff success:

“You try to get to the playoffs with a good identity, good momentum, good confidence, good health, and then you just roll the dice trying to run it back.”

For the Celtics, maintaining their health and building momentum as the playoffs approach could be more crucial than replicating last season’s dominance.

A Tough Road Ahead for the Celtics

The Celtics face a challenging schedule as they aim to regain their rhythm:

• Wednesday night: Against the Los Angeles Clippers.
• Thursday night: A high-profile matchup with the rival Los Angeles Lakers.
• Saturday afternoon: A rematch with the Dallas Mavericks, their opponents in the 2024 NBA Finals.

These games will test Boston’s resolve and provide an opportunity to strengthen their identity ahead of the postseason.

Conclusion: Confidence in the Celtics

Despite their recent struggles, the Celtics remain one of the NBA’s top teams. With a solid record, a deep roster, and a championship mentality, they are well-positioned to contend for another title.

Stephen Curry’s comments serve as a reminder that slumps are normal for defending champions, especially in a league where every team is aiming to dethrone the titleholders. As long as the Celtics prioritize health, momentum, and consistency, their road to repeating as champions remains within reach.

All eyes will be on Boston as they tackle their tough upcoming schedule, with fans and critics alike eager to see how the reigning champs respond to the challenges ahead.