
Jerry Stackhouse dropped a hint about what the Golden State Warriors might need to do next. He revealed a surprising angle on how to handle a legendary player like Stephen Curry in his final years.
Stackhouse suggested that the Warriors should transition Stephen Curry into a secondary player to ensure franchise survival. During a FanDuel TV appearance, the former Warriors coach argued that reducing the star creator burden is the only way to combat aging and injury cycles.
“I know it sounds crazy to think of Steph Curry as a secondary player, but he will be 39 this year and father time is undefeated… Jimmy’s not gonna be a part of the picture,” Stackhouse said.
Jerry Stackhouse says a piece like Kawhi or LeBron could rejuvenate the Warriors
— Run It Back (@RunItBackFDTV) June 2, 2026
"I know it sounds crazy to think of Steph Curry as a secondary player, but he will be 39 this year and father time is undefeated… Jimmy's not gonna be a part of the picture."@jerrystackhouse… pic.twitter.com/5Mj8VI9sNs
Stackhouse recently left the Warriors’ coaching staff, giving him an insider’s view of the locker room. This idea is not a criticism of Curry at all. It is just a long-term roster plan aimed at survival.
Calling Curry a “secondary player” refers to a reduced burden on the star player. This will help the franchise in much better health management over a long season. It also allows others to become the primary creators.
The Warriors had a rough 37-45 campaign in the Western Conference. They even failed to qualify for an actual playoff run. Even Jimmy Butler’s arrival could not solve their roster issues.
So if Curry’s workload changes, who helps carry it?
Stackhouse wants the team to find new people they can play through in clutch moments. He gave specific examples of adding veteran stars to the mix instead of inexperienced draft picks. This approach requires finding someone who can step in and demand attention.
Stackhouse suggested that a player like Kawhi Leonard or LeBron James could rejuvenate the tired roster. The logic makes a lot of sense for a team trying to maximize a closing window.
Both veterans bring shot creation, leadership, and championship experience. Their presence would ease Curry’s burden.
James already shares a strong Olympic connection with Curry, Kerr, and Green. James can control the pace and find open shooters easily. However, there is still uncertainty surrounding his future decisions. Nobody knows if he wants to leave Los Angeles for a new chapter.
Golden State faces limited financial flexibility under the new league rules. Any major additions like Leonard would require large contracts via trade.
Butler’s fit becomes uncertain due to his salary. The team cannot pay four players maximum money under the new league rules.
Stackhouse is not claiming that Curry cannot lead a team anymore. He is arguing that Golden State must protect the few elite years it has left.
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