As the NBA season rolls on, two massive questions are dominating the basketball world: Is Stephen Curry the greatest of all time (GOAT)? and Are the Los Angeles Lakers right to move on from Anthony Davis? Both questions are intertwined with the futures of some of the league’s biggest stars, and their answers have implications not only for the franchises they represent but also for the larger narrative of the NBA itself.

Stephen Curry and the GOAT Conversation

Stephen Curry’s name is more frequently mentioned in the GOAT conversation with each passing season, and for good reason. As one of the most transformative players in NBA history, Curry has completely altered the landscape of the game. His unprecedented shooting ability, combined with his clutch performances in critical moments, has made him one of the most feared and respected players in the league.

However, the question remains: Does Curry deserve to be in the same conversation as Michael Jordan, LeBron James, or Kobe Bryant as the greatest of all time?

In a league historically dominated by big men and later, perimeter players like Jordan and LeBron, Curry has become the face of a new era, one where the three-point shot reigns supreme and offenses are built around spacing, ball movement, and perimeter shooting. His impact on the game extends far beyond just his individual accolades—it’s the way he has changed the fabric of basketball itself.

Curry has led the Golden State Warriors to four NBA championships, securing two MVPs, including one unanimous selection (a feat never before accomplished in the history of the NBA). His influence is felt not just in the Warriors’ success, but in the way the entire league has shifted to a more three-point centric approach. Teams are now looking to replicate Golden State’s success, investing heavily in shooting and floor spacing.

Still, when it comes to the ultimate GOAT debate, the conversation often hinges on more than just titles and statistics. Michael Jordan’s six championships and perfect 6-0 record in the Finals stand as an indomitable legacy, while LeBron James’ longevity, versatility, and sustained excellence have kept him firmly in the discussion. Some argue that Curry, despite his revolutionary influence on the game, doesn’t have the Finals MVPs or the career achievements to surpass Jordan or LeBron.

But the argument for Curry as the GOAT doesn’t stop at statistics. Curry represents a different kind of greatness—one that transcends traditional metrics and takes into account his impact on the culture of the game. His ability to inspire and change the way basketball is played at all levels might be the defining legacy that puts him in the same breath as the all-time greats.

The Lakers and Anthony Davis: Should They Move On?

Meanwhile, in Los Angeles, another major question looms: Are the Lakers right to move on from Anthony Davis?

Davis, one of the most gifted big men the NBA has ever seen, is undeniably talented. His combination of size, skill, and defensive prowess makes him a top-tier player, but his fit with LeBron James and his consistency has been the subject of much debate. After a thrilling 2020 NBA championship win in the bubble, where Davis was a key player in the Lakers’ run, his tenure in LA has been marked by injuries, inconsistent performances, and missed opportunities.

This has led to increasing speculation about Davis’ future with the Lakers. LeBron James is in the twilight of his career, and with each passing year, the Lakers face mounting pressure to contend for another championship before LeBron’s window closes. However, Davis has often failed to be the consistent, dominant force the Lakers need alongside LeBron to sustain a championship run. Whether it’s through injuries or a lack of aggressiveness, Davis has shown flashes of greatness, but hasn’t always been able to maintain that level of play over the course of a full season or in crucial playoff moments.

If the Lakers are to seriously compete for titles in the next few years, they need a more reliable option in the post. While Davis is a defensive anchor and can be a game-changer when engaged, his occasional lapses and injury history have led some to believe that the Lakers should look to move on from him and seek a more consistent star to pair with LeBron. The question now becomes: What does Davis’ future look like in LA?

A trade could be in the cards. The Lakers could explore trading Davis for a younger, healthier star or perhaps even a superstar with a more proven playoff resume. A trade could bring back multiple assets, allowing the Lakers to build a more well-rounded team around LeBron as he plays out the final chapters of his career. The Davis era in Los Angeles could be nearing its end if the Lakers decide to pivot toward a long-term strategy after their brief championship window.

Should the Lakers Keep Davis?

That being said, there are also compelling reasons why the Lakers might choose to keep Anthony Davis. Davis’ ceiling is still incredibly high—when healthy and fully engaged, he is one of the most dominant players in the league. His defensive versatility is unmatched, and he provides the Lakers with the ability to dominate the paint on both ends of the floor. With LeBron aging, Davis could be the future cornerstone of the franchise if he can stay healthy and develop more consistency.

Additionally, Davis’ fit alongside LeBron, although imperfect at times, gives the Lakers one of the most formidable duos in the NBA. As long as Davis stays motivated and works to improve his consistency, he still has the potential to be a top-5 player in the league. The Lakers could find success if they surround him with the right pieces—a supporting cast that can help take the pressure off him on both ends of the court.

Ultimately, the decision to move on from Davis hinges on how much faith the Lakers have in his ability to stay healthy and perform at a high level. If they believe Davis can return to his 2020 bubble form and stay healthy through the playoffs, it’s worth holding on to him. But if his inconsistency continues, and the Lakers see an opportunity to bring in a more reliable star, it might be time to part ways.

Conclusion: The Legacy of Curry and the Lakers’ Dilemma

As the NBA’s narrative continues to evolve, two of the most intriguing storylines will be Stephen Curry’s place in the GOAT conversation and the Los Angeles Lakers’ decision regarding Anthony Davis. Curry has already etched his name in history as a revolutionary player who has redefined the game, and his legacy continues to grow with each passing season. His ability to lead Golden State to titles and transform the league through his play makes him a true contender in the GOAT conversation, but whether he surpasses Jordan or LeBron remains a matter of personal preference and debate.

As for the Lakers, their future depends largely on how they handle Anthony Davis. While Davis has the talent to be a franchise-altering player, his inconsistency and injury history leave the Lakers with tough decisions to make. Whether they choose to build around him or move on in search of a more reliable superstar, the direction the Lakers take in the next few seasons will shape their championship hopes for years to come.

In the end, the success of both Curry’s legacy and the Lakers’ decision on Davis will shape the future of the NBA—and possibly redefine what it means to be a true NBA legend.