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Stephen Curry Sets Tone for New Year with Clutch Two-Way Takeover Against Magic
Curry’s 10th Career Game With 35+ Points, 4+ 3-Pointers and 4+ Steals
Stephen Curry and the Warriors hosted the Orlando Magic on Tuesday, with the opportunity for a fresh start to begin the calendar year. The Warriors were amidst a three-game losing streak in which Curry had combined to shoot 19-for-61 (31.1 percent) from the field. The all-time leader in made 3-pointers broke out of his slump on Tuesday, ironically by attacking closer to the basket. In the second quarter, Curry scored eight consecutive points for the Warriors, all inside the arc. That opened up his perimeter shot, as he splashed in a four-point play near the end of the first half.
“It’s always about taking what the defense gives you, knowing when you can be aggressive,” Curry said postgame.
In the second half, Curry got free for a couple of catch-and-shoot threes, draining two that swished without him even looking back at the basket.
“Steph was amazing, but Steph is always amazing, even when he doesn’t score 36 points,” Head Coach Steve Kerr said. “The attention he draws defensively, what he does to an opposing defense, the way he opens up the floor. He’s a remarkable player and got himself going on a night when we needed it.”
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Highlights: Stephen Curry Scores 36 Points in Win Over Magic – 1/2/24
Curry contributed in multiple ways besides scoring, including dishing out six assists, recording a season-high four steals and blocking a shot.
Tuesday’s game marked the 10th time in his career that he’s had at least 35 points, four made 3-pointers and four steals, the first time he’s accomplished that feat since Nov. 8. 2021.
The two-time MVP came through on both ends of the floor and elevated his game when his team needed him most. The NBA’s leader in clutch points (99), field goals (29) and threes (16) scored eight points and shot a perfect 3-for-3 from the field in the last five minutes.
Postgame Warriors Talk: Stephen Curry – 1/2/24
“We showed resiliency after the last two games that we’ve had,” Curry said. “Orlando has been playing great; they’re very physical and that’s been kind of our weakness.”
One of the most effective defenses in the NBA struggled to contain Curry all night and he was simultaneously the most productive defender on the court.
