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Golden State Warriors head coach Steve Kerr has long recognized Stephen Curry's unique ability to accept criticism and respond positively. This trait reminds Kerr of Tim Duncan's relationship with coach Gregg Popovich during their San Antonio Spurs days. Kerr emphasizes that the Warriors can no longer afford careless mistakes, despite their impressive 7-1 start this season. These are no longer the dynasty years featuring a peak Curry alongside Kevin Durant, Draymond Green, and Klay Thompson; the margin for error is now razor-thin.

Kerr pointed out that, in their recent game against the Boston Celtics, the opponents took 20 more three-pointers in the second half—a glaring reminder of how costly turnovers can be. "I've been all over Steph and Draymond. It's incumbent upon them because they are our leaders and handle the ball most. They've got to cut back on their bad decisions like that," Kerr stated.

Curry, reflecting on his performance after the game, noted that he did not commit another turnover following Kerr's criticism. "It's a mindset that, one, I want to be coached just like everyone else," Curry explained. "I don't get sensitive about getting yelled at if you make a dumb play, especially because it led to a three on the other end. We have to be able to take care of possessions."

In the pivotal moment of the game, the Warriors went on a 5-0 run following a timeout, ultimately outscoring the Celtics 14-4 for the rest of the second quarter and taking an 11-point lead into halftime. This momentum shift, catalyzed by Curry's accountability and leadership, sealed their eventual six-point victory.

This iteration of the team only retains seven players from their 2022 championship roster. With new players stepping up and youngsters moving past their development phase, everyone has bought into the collective effort, as evidenced by their staunch defense that restricted the Celtics to just 40 first-half points. However, Curry remains the linchpin who holds it all together.

Buddy Hield, now thriving with his fifth team in nine years, noted the profound impact of Curry's leadership. "Steph just... he's the ultimate superstar," Hield said. "I'm learning a lot ever since I've been here. Every day you're learning something new. That's humbling, Steve coming at the best player. He's won two MVPs and four championships, but that's how coachable Steph is, man."

The Warriors have now won five consecutive road games to start a season for the first time since their historic 73-win campaign. Curry, having just returned from a three-game absence due to injury and logging 34 minutes, humorously suggested he could even play 40 minutes in their next game in Cleveland.

For the Warriors, everything starts and ends with Curry. His relationship with Kerr serves as a beacon for every player, illustrating the power of coachability and leadership in their ongoing quest for success.