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Warriors’ new signing reveals one player he believes ‘similar to Stephen Curry,’ both set to play together next season

Originally posted on NBA Analysis Network
By Bergas Agung | Last updated Oct 1, 2025 12:00 PM ET

The Golden State Warriors will enter next season with several new roster additions.

Al Horford and De’Anthony Melton reportedly agreed to join the team, though contract finalization remains pending due to Jonathan Kuminga’s ongoing stalemate.

The Warriors also re-signed Gary Payton II, a player Stephen Curry actively pushed the franchise to acquire.

Next season also marks Jimmy Butler‘s first full campaign in the Bay Area after showing promise with a 23-7 record in limited action last season.

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Gary Payton II highlights Jimmy Butler’s similarity to Stephen Curry in creating advantages through defensive attention

Payton recently shared his enthusiasm about playing alongside Butler again, noting the forward’s playing style creates similar offensive opportunities as Curry despite different skill sets.

“It’s huge [to play alongside Jimmy Butler]. You know what he does, you know what he demands. It’s easy to play with him, just similar to Steph,” Payton explained.

“He’s got to have two [players] on him, of course on the post, so just make it easier for him to find open space, give him outlets, and if he doesn’t, let him work and do what he does on the block, and play from there,” he added.

Butler may not possess Curry’s elite shooting ability, but the former Miami Heat star generates strong gravitational effects that demand defensive attention.

His post presence and scoring ability force opponents to double-team him, creating space for teammates like Payton.

Jimmy Butler provides alternative offensive dimension beyond traditional shooting

Like Curry, Butler can execute offense independently.

Rather than relying on perimeter shooting, he excels at one-on-one scoring and driving to the rim, providing the Warriors with diverse offensive options.

Last season, Butler averaged 17.9 points across 30 games with the Warriors.

Next season offers opportunity for increased production with a full campaign and improved chemistry with teammates.

If Butler elevates his numbers, the Warriors become significantly more dangerous, particularly when combined with additions like Horford, Melton, and Payton providing enhanced depth and versatility.

This article first appeared on NBA Analysis Network and was syndicated with permission.

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