Since Steph Curry entered the league in 2009, the Golden State Warriors have built a dynasty around him. Along the way, they’ve had to say goodbye to some crucial players who helped shape their championship success. From Kevin Durant’s departure to recent exits like Jordan Poole and Klay Thompson, these losses changed the course of the team’s journey. Let’s break down the toughest departures in the Curry era.
Since Steph Curry entered the league in 2009, the Golden State Warriors have built a dynasty around him. Along the way, they’ve had to say goodbye to some crucial players who helped shape their championship success. From Kevin Durant’s departure to recent exits like Jordan Poole and Klay Thompson, these losses changed the course of the team’s journey. Let’s break down the toughest departures in the Curry era.
Kevin Durant’s departure in 2019 marked one of the most significant moments in the Warriors’ history. Durant, a two-time Finals MVP, was a key piece in Golden State’s back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018. His ability to take over games and play elite defense made him a matchup nightmare and an irreplaceable part of their dynasty.
During his three years with the Warriors, Durant averaged 25.8 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 5.4 assists per game, while consistently delivering in the biggest moments. His partnership with Steph Curry and Klay Thompson gave the Warriors a superteam that dominated the league, and they likely could have won more titles had injuries not hit during the 2019 Finals.
Durant chose to leave the Golden State Warriors for the Brooklyn Nets in 2019, a move that shook the NBA landscape. His departure left a massive void, especially after suffering an Achilles injury in his final game with Golden State. While the Warriors regrouped, Durant’s exit signaled the end of a historic run and shifted the balance of power in the league. Even though his time in Golden State was relatively short, Durant’s impact was immense, cementing his legacy as one of the greatest players in franchise history.
