Stephen Curry scores 54 points, leaves Draymond Green hanging
Stephen Curry has been a star in the making since he carried the Davidson Wildcats to the Elite Eight in 2008. Five years later, he is on pace to be the first NBA player EVER to average over six assists and three treys per game. ESPN the Mag recently touted him to be the NBA's greatest shooter EVERRRR. Stats say so.
On Wednesday night, he planted 54 points on the Knicks at the Garden. The last player to drop at least 52 points there was LeBron James. The last player to drop more than 54 points there was Kobe Bryant (61). Needless to say, Stephen Curry doesn't high five when approaching 50 at the Garden (on national TV no less); he dances:
(Curry made sure to high five Green after knocking down his next three.)
video via Brady Green
GIF via SB Nation
The NBA is arguably the least compelling professional sport. While I feel there is some credence to the "look at me" athlete syndrome that is perhaps most pronounced in the NBA, it is my sense that the guaranteed contract structure is the real culprit. In short, these players hardly try anymore. And what motivation do they have? They get paid either way. Look at Rose from the Bulls. Not only does his ridiculous contract underscore how imprudent the guaranteed contract structure is (i.e., he is hurt and a team could decide to "cut bait" in the NFL), he has zero reason to return...ever.
Perfect example of today's athlete, look at me look at me. It used to be you would hug teammates, high five or do some sort of made up handshake with someone. Now they all want to be away from everyone so the camera is just on them and they can have their slow motion moment for the highlight reel. Pathetic.