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Stephen Curry dismisses NBA's tanking issues: "Let's focus on the positives"
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- Stephen Curry dismisses NBA's tanking issues: "Let's focus on the positives"
Stephen Curry 's high stature in the NBA is not only an outcome of his brilliance on the hardwood. The Golden State Warriors guard serves as a great role model for younger aspirants, thanks to his diligent approach to the game and the relatability factor with fans.
Currently, in his 17th season, Curry has established himself as one of the most influential players of all time. The baby-faced assassin changed the landscape of the league with his 3-point prowess. Adding to it is his ability to be a threat off the ball as well.
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No surprises why the four-time champion's word carries a lot of weight. Recently, addressing the reporters, Curry was asked about the current tanking crisis in the NBA. The 37-year-old had a rather nonchalant response, calling out the constant criticism against the league.
"Is it really that big of a problem? I'm asking," Curry said to the reporter after being told that a third of the teams were reportedly tanking.
"Things evolve, problems arise and everybody wants to shine a spotlight on all the negatives of the league. But let's focus on the positives of how great the competition is at the top. There still is relevancy, regular season-wise of the seeding and playoff chase," added the veteran guard, who did have certain views about the number of games played.
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Curry prefers discussing the 82-game schedule
Addressing the tanking controversy in the NBA, Steph felt other issues probably needed more attention. Though he didn't express his stance clearly, one assumed the veteran guard wasn't very happy with the number of games played year-round. Nevertheless, he was generally positive about the league.
"I know there's a conversation around how many games we're playing. That's probably where I would focus more the attention. Let's not forget the league is in great place overall in terms of the attention, the skill level, the global reach, all of that stuff. Every year, you'll address the issues. I don't have those answers, though," mentioned Curry.
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Never one to complain about the grueling NBA calendar or duck from playing all 82 games, Curry has subtly expressed his displeasure in recent years. Not long ago, he issued a rather mixed response about the 15 back-to-back games on the Warriors' schedule this season.
"Very interesting and different schedule than what we're used to, just from the patterns of what I've noticed over the last 16 years. But everybody's got to play 82 and we hope to be able to get through it," said Steph ahead of the 2025-26 season.
Back in 2023, Curry also spoke about the league's load management problem. He tried to debunk the biggest misconception that the players were responsible for it, citing how it was the medical staff who ultimately took the call.
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Recent injuries
Barring a few ankle issues in his initial years in the league, Curry had, for the most part, avoided major injuries. While the Warriors' MVP still missed a week or two on a season-wise average, he always managed a quick recovery. That said, things have been a little different in the last year or so.
Currently dealing with a right knee injury, Steph also sat out the 2026 All-Star Game. Not long ago, Curry had sustained a hamstring strain during the 2025 West semis, which indeed cost the Warriors a chance at a potential Western Conference Finals appearance.
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No doubt, Curry is moving towards the latter end of his career with Father Time at the doorstep. Probably why he also felt there were bigger concerns to address than tanking.
This story was originally published by Basketball Network on Feb 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the Latest News section. Add Basketball Network as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
