Golden State Warriors fans and many NBA followers alike are anxiously pondering what the team’s future will look like once Stephen Curry retires. Despite several promising guards joining the roster over recent seasons, none has firmly established themselves as the definitive successor in the limited opportunities they have had. The quest to identify the next Stephen Curry remains fraught with challenges and unanswered questions.
The Rise and Fall of Jordan Poole as a Potential Successor
Jordan Poole, selected 28th overall in the 2019 NBA Draft from Michigan, was widely regarded as the most likely heir to Curry’s role, due to similarities in shooting style that earned him the nickname “Splash Nephew.” After a difficult rookie season marked by poor shooting percentages, Poole steadily improved his scoring, rising from around 12 points per game in his second year to nearly 20 in his fourth and final season with Golden State.
His breakout 2021–22 campaign secured him a lucrative four-year, $128 million contract extension, signed in October 2022. Poole’s contributions were pivotal in the Warriors capturing a championship, averaging 17 points in the playoffs with multiple 20- and 30-point games, including a memorable buzzer-beater in the Finals. Over the following season, he further enhanced his scoring and playmaking, especially during Curry’s absence, delivering multiple high-scoring performances.
However, this promising trajectory abruptly ended after internal turmoil involving Draymond Green during the offseason. Poole was traded to the Washington Wizards in exchange for Chris Paul, marking a sudden end to his Warriors tenure. After two seasons averaging 19 points in Washington, Poole was traded again in 2025 to the New Orleans Pelicans. Approaching the 2026 trade deadline, he has been demoted from the rotation and is actively shopped by the Pelicans, illustrating a sharp decline from his early promise in Golden State.
Ryan Rollins’ Unexpected Growth After Leaving the Warriors
Ryan Rollins was the 44th overall pick in the 2022 draft and was traded to Golden State on draft night. Despite initial expectations, he barely found playing time, appearing in only 12 games before being sent to Washington as part of the Poole-Paul trade. His stint with the Wizards was brief and blemished by shoplifting allegations, leading to his release in early 2024.
Shortly thereafter, the Milwaukee Bucks offered Rollins a two-way contract. Over the next season and a half, he gradually earned more significant minutes and finally broke out spectacularly this season. Currently averaging 16.5 points, along with 4.6 rebounds and 5.5 assists per game, Rollins has transformed into one of the NBA’s most surprising improvements. Once known primarily for defense, his offensive skills have surged, highlighted by two 30-point games including a career-high 32 points against the Warriors themselves.
Rollins’ development raises questions about the Warriors’ decision to let him go, as he has emerged as a serious contender for the Most Improved Player award and a valuable contributor elsewhere in the league.
Ty Jerome’s Brief Stint in Golden State and New Opportunities
Unlike Poole and Rollins, Ty Jerome was not drafted by the Warriors but joined the team on a two-way contract in October 2022. During Curry’s extended injury absence in the 2022–23 season, Jerome seized the chance to showcase his capabilities, participating in 45 games with several notable scoring outings.
Despite his contributions, Golden State opted not to re-sign Jerome after that season. The Cavaliers provided a fresh start with a two-year contract, though an ankle injury soon curtailed his first season. Coming into his second year in Cleveland, Jerome proved to be a dependable backup point guard to Donovan Mitchell, averaging 12.5 points and playing a role in helping the Cavaliers secure the top record in the Eastern Conference.
Following a disappointing playoff exit, Jerome entered free agency in 2024. While Cleveland hesitated to extend his contract, the Memphis Grizzlies promptly offered him a three-year, $28 million deal. After missing nearly half the season due to a calf injury, Jerome made an impactful debut for Memphis, posting strong performances with 20 points and multiple assists in consecutive games.
In an ideal scenario for Warriors fans, Jerome would have matured into Curry’s backup, offering valuable depth and continuity for the backcourt.
Examining Possible Candidates to Lead the Warriors After Curry
Fans often wonder what could have been had the Warriors retained all three guards, but dwelling on lost opportunities would be unproductive. Instead, attention turns to the current players vying to succeed Curry. Brandin Podziemski has positioned himself as a potential heir but still needs to earn the trust of the Warriors’ fanbase. Meanwhile, Jonathan Kuminga remains a key figure with considerable upside, pending a resolution of his relationship with coach Steve Kerr.
The question of who will ultimately take over remains complex and uncertain.
Looking Ahead While Appreciating Curry’s Legacy
Although the Warriors face anxiety and uncertainty in identifying the next star to carry the torch, the best course is to appreciate Stephen Curry’s continuing excellence while it lasts. His ongoing presence remains a beacon of hope and inspiration to the franchise, its supporters, and the league.
