Unbreaking Stephen Curry's 3-Point Shooting Dominance in NBA History
Stephen Curry has left an indelible mark on the NBA, especially in the realm of 3-point shooting. In the 2015-16 season, he set a record for most 3-point shots made in a single season. He shot a staggering 402 threes, and this achievement was even more impressive given that he was also the leading scorer in the league that season and won the MVP award.
Interestingly, while James Harden came close to breaking Curry's record during the 2018-19 season, his 378 three-point shots fell short. Harden, a prolific shooter averaging 36.1 points per game, struggled to maintain the high volume of attempts necessary to match Curry's record. Despite his career 36% three-point shooting, it seems that Curry's record is firmly in place and might be difficult to surpass.
Curry's Potential for a Legendary Career
Even though Curry has yet to set a career record in terms of the number of 3-pointers made, his current standing is quite remarkable. Ray Allen, the previous record holder, has 2,973 made three-pointers in his career. With 2,495 made three-point shots under his belt, Curry is only 478 shots away from breaking Allen's record.
Given Curry's consistency and productivity over the past few seasons, it appears that he could shatter Allen's record. If Curry plays at a high level without injury for another four years, from his current age of 31 to 35, he could average around 300 made three-pointers annually. This projection would total another 1,200 makes, putting Curry's career total at close to 3,700, a feat that might stay unbroken for a very long time.
In his most recent seasons, Curry, despite being partially injured, continued to showcase his shooting prowess. If he can maintain his form and health, the milestone of 4,000 career three-pointers is not impossible. This potential record stands as a testament to Curry's legendary status in the NBA and highlights his unassailable contributions to the sport.
The Impact of Curry on MVP Voting
The 2015 MVP award was the first to be bestowed entirely to one player, with Stephen Curry receiving unanimous votes. This accomplishment is particularly notable given the league's reputation for often splitting MVP votes among multiple deserving players. Curry's unanimous MVP award came during a transformative time for the NBA, where the Golden State Warriors dominated the league, both statistically and in the eyes of the public.
Many might wonder if such a feat is ever likely to be repeated. While it's nearly impossible to envision the next player receiving unanimous MVP recognition, Curry's record exemplifies a unique combination of individual skill and team success. Even great players like Shaquille O'Neal, who was known for his scoring prowess, never achieved such a singular honor.
The unanimous MVP award, in essence, underscores Curry's impact not just as a player, but as a transformative force in the sport. It serves as a benchmark, not only for current players but also for future generations of basketball fans and gamers, who continue to marvel at his skills and contributions to the NBA.
Conclusion
Stephen Curry's records will continue to inspire and awe basketball fans around the world. His ability to break longstanding records and set new benchmarks in the sport is a testament to his extraordinary talent and dedication. Whether it's his record for the most threes in a single season, or his potential to reach the 4,000 career three-pointers milestone, Curry's career is a chapter in NBA history that will be remembered for generations to come.
The question of whether future players can achieve similar feats is open to debate. However, one thing is certain: Curry's legacy is permanent, and his impact on the game of basketball is profound and lasting.