Klay Thompson Thinks Trae Young is Better Than Steph Curry, Says He’s Just Unlucky to Be on a ‘Bad Team’

In a surprising and bold statement, Golden State Warriors star Klay Thompson has expressed his belief that Atlanta Hawks point guard Trae Young is a better player than his former teammate, Steph Curry. Thompson, who has been a key part of the Warriors’ dynasty and played alongside Curry for over a decade, made the comments during a recent interview, which have sparked an immediate backlash and widespread debate among basketball fans and analysts alike.

A Surprising Comparison

While Thompson’s comments have shocked many, the Warriors sharpshooter explained that his praise for Young comes from his admiration for the young star’s skill set and potential. “Trae is one of the most gifted players I’ve seen in a long time,” Thompson said. “I think he’s honestly better than Steph right now in terms of raw ability. His vision, his scoring, his ability to create shots from anywhere on the floor—he’s a real force.”

Thompson’s statement is particularly notable given the fact that Curry is widely regarded as the best shooter in NBA history, with numerous accolades including multiple MVPs, four NBA championships, and being a central figure in the Warriors’ dominance over the last decade. Curry’s leadership and impact on the game have made him one of the most influential players of his generation.

However, Thompson suggested that Young’s struggles in Atlanta are less about his talent and more about the circumstances he finds himself in. “Trae’s just unlucky to be on a bad team,” Thompson added. “If he had the right pieces around him, he’d be dominating even more. He’s a special player, and if given the right system and supporting cast, he could lead any team to a championship.”

Trae Young’s Struggles in Atlanta

Trae Young, the former fifth overall pick in the 2018 NBA Draft, has undoubtedly been one of the most electrifying players in the league since his arrival. He has made multiple All-Star teams, led the Hawks to the Eastern Conference Finals in 2021, and is a perennial scoring and assist leader. However, the Hawks have struggled to consistently surround him with the right talent, and the team has often been in a state of flux, which has limited their overall success.

Despite his individual brilliance, Young’s lack of sustained playoff success has led to criticism, with some questioning whether he can truly lead a team to an NBA championship. While Young has made tremendous strides in his development, he has faced challenges in terms of team chemistry, roster construction, and leadership stability in Atlanta.

This backdrop of inconsistency has led some to question whether Young’s situation mirrors that of other great players who were held back by the lack of a championship-worthy supporting cast early in their careers. Thompson seems to believe that, much like players such as LeBron James early in his career, Young’s greatness is obscured by the surrounding environment rather than his individual abilities.

Is Trae Young Really Better Than Steph Curry?

Thompson’s comparison between Young and Curry has raised eyebrows across the basketball community. While many acknowledge Young’s immense talent, suggesting that he is “better” than Curry is a bold claim, especially given Curry’s unmatched resume. Curry has changed the game with his shooting range and has led the Warriors to four championships in just eight years, solidifying his status as one of the greatest players of all time. In contrast, while Young’s potential is undeniable, he has yet to reach the heights of Curry’s accomplishments.

Critics of Thompson’s comments have pointed out that while Young is undoubtedly a dynamic scorer and playmaker, Curry’s leadership and his ability to elevate his team in big moments remain unmatched. Curry’s impact extends beyond his individual skills—his influence on the Warriors’ success and his leadership in clutch moments are key components of his greatness.

Klay Thompson’s Loyalty to His Teammates

Despite the controversy, Thompson’s comments also shed light on his loyalty to his former teammate. Curry has long been his partner in the backcourt, and the two have won three championships together. Thompson’s praise for Young could be interpreted as his genuine admiration for the young star, as well as a reflection of his confidence in Young’s abilities. Thompson himself has been sidelined for extended periods due to injuries, and he knows firsthand how challenging it can be to compete when the right supporting cast is missing.

While Thompson’s remarks may appear to diminish Curry’s legacy, it’s likely that his intentions were not to undermine Curry’s greatness, but rather to emphasize how special Trae Young’s talent is and how much potential he has, especially if placed in the right situation. It’s a reminder that the narrative of success in the NBA is not always about individual brilliance but often about the systems and teammates that help elevate that brilliance to championship level.

The Future for Trae Young

As for Trae Young, the future remains bright, despite the struggles in Atlanta. He is still only 24 years old, and his combination of scoring, playmaking, and vision make him one of the most exciting players to watch in the NBA. The big question is whether the Hawks can put together a roster that can truly contend for a championship and allow Young to showcase his full potential.

Atlanta has made some roster moves over the past couple of seasons to try and improve the team, including acquiring Dejounte Murray to pair with Young. However, with the team still searching for the right balance, it remains to be seen whether they can build a squad that will allow Young to take that next step toward greatness.

Conclusion

Klay Thompson’s comments about Trae Young being “better” than Steph Curry have certainly stirred up the NBA world, with many fans and analysts taking sides on the issue. While it’s clear that Young is a generational talent with enormous potential, comparing him to one of the greatest players of all time in Curry is a tough proposition for many.

Nonetheless, Thompson’s comments serve as a reminder of the impact that circumstances and supporting cast can have on a player’s career. If Trae Young ever finds himself on a team with the right pieces around him, he could very well ascend to new heights, potentially rivaling the best players in the league. But for now, Curry’s legacy stands firm, while Young continues to chase the success that many believe he is capable of.