Having a great backcourt is an essential part of any NBA team’s success. The players not only handle the scoring responsibilities for the team but also make great plays for their teammates as well.
Keeping those points in mind, the backcourt duos of Stephen Curry-Klay Thompson and James Harden-Kyrie are arguably the best in the league as of now. All the four players mentioned have skills that can win games for their teams.
While Curry and Thompson can score at ease and make it a nightmare for any opposing defense, they somewhat lack playmaking abilities. It’s not that they are underwhelming, it’s not their best skill.
On the other hand, the duo of Irving and Harden can not only score but distribute the ball as well. This makes them hard to contain for any defense and thus they can win games for their teams.
Regardless of their styles, both the backcourts have proved that they can succeed in the NBA. Moreover, for what they have achieved in the league, they will one day make it to the Basketball Hall of Fame.
Former NBA superstar and now Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr recently spoke about the difference between the styles of the two backcourts. Kerr said:
“The styles are different. Both of those guys are as tough to handle on the ball as anyone. Steph and Klay are as tough to handle off the ball … With all four guys, there’s no weakness. They’re all All-Star, HoF players.”
Steve Kerr on the Harden/Irving, Steph/Klay backcourts: “The styles are different. Both of those guys are as tough to handle on the ball as anyone. Steph and Klay are as tough to handle off the ball … With all four guys, there’s no weakness. They’re all All-Star, HoF players.”
— Kendra Andrews (@kendra__andrews) January 28, 2022
As Kerr explained, Curry and Thompson are quite tough to handle off the ball. The movement they make off the ball disrupts the rhythm of the defense and opens up several opportunities for everyone on the court.
At the end of the day, all four players are some of the best that have stepped on the hardwood of our generation. And when they retire, they will be remembered for the many amazing years of basketball that they provided the fans with.
